The Office of the Chaplain United States House of Representatives

Reverend Edward F. Jordan

St. John Neumann Catholic Church
Austin, TX

Sponsor: Rep. Hon. Michael McCaul, (R-TX)
Date of Prayer: 06/14/2006

One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:

(Mr. McCAUL of Texas asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute.)

Mr. McCAUL of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a great man, a man of God, a man of faith, a man who has devoted his entire career, indeed his entire life, to the service of his fellow man.

Monsignor Edward Jordan , who offered this morning's prayer for the House of Representatives is revered, admired, and loved by all in his congregation and by all those whose life he has touched. He is the voice and shepherd of our parish at St. John Neumann's Catholic Church in Austin, Texas.

Born in Springfield, Ohio, Monsignor Jordan entered the priesthood after receiving his doctorate in theology from the Angelicum University in Rome. From there he served and strengthened the Catholic Church and its flock in central Texas for over four decades.

It has been a great privilege to call Monsignor Jordan my pastor. And everyone who knows him experiences the true message of Christ. In his words and in his deeds, and above all, in his heart, his example is a beacon of light which draws us all closer to the Creator. His faith and devotion to the life of Christ is an inspiration to us all.

Both as a candidate and as a Member of Congress, Monsignor Jordan gave me the spiritual guidance and taught me the true meaning of sacrifice and public service. He baptized my triplets, not an easy accomplishment, and he administered the Sacrament of Holy Communion to my oldest daughters.

And while his retirement this Sunday marks the end of one spiritual journey, it also marks the beginning of another.

As you move on from your official role within the Church, you will always remain our shepherd, our spiritual leader, and, above all, our friend. Monsignor Jordan , I know that I speak for all of us in the Catholic community when I say that we will miss you, but we know that you will always be there for your flock.

I am reminded of the Gospel of Matthew when Jesus said, ‘‘Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.'' May the peace of Christ be with you and may He hold you in the palm of his hand.

Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:

O God, we ask your guidance for the men and women who serve their country in this house of government. Give them the wisdom to understand what is truly good for the citizens who have elected them and the courage to frame the best possible laws to achieve this good. Bless and protect their families and friends who have shared with them the challenging task of seeking public office and serving their nation before the gaze of all.

On this day when we honor the Flag, the symbol of our nation, keep us mindful of those men and women who have given their lives in war and in peace that we may enjoy laws that support our liberty. Furthermore, we seek your guidance for all the citizens of this nation as they offer their chosen representatives both enthusiastic support and civil opposition in their honorable work of governing.

Amen.

To learn more about Members who have sponsored a Guest Chaplain, please visit the Congressional Biographical Directory