The Office of the Chaplain United States House of Representatives

Reverend Michael D. Pfingsten

St. Paul Lutheran Church
Harvard, IL

Sponsor: Rep. Don Manzullo, (R-IL)
Date of Prayer: 06/12/2007

One Minute Speech Given in Recognition of the Guest Chaplain:

Mr. MANZULLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Reverend Michael D. Pfingsten, the U.S. House of Representatives guest chaplain for today.

Mike is a Lutheran pastor of 19 years; and he and his family have joined us from Harvard, Illinois, where Rev. Pfingsten is pastor of St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Rev. Pfingsten earned his B.A. in History at Concordia College and Masters of Divinity in History at Concordia Theological Seminary.

On this day in 325 A.D., Christian bishops gathered to discuss the essentials of the Christian faith at the first Council of Nicaea. I am delighted that Rev. Pfingsten, a man who can truly appreciate the significance of this day, was able to lead us in prayer.

Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:

Almighty God, You have given us this good land as our heritage. Grant that we remember your generosity and constantly do Your will.

Bless our land with honest industry, truthful education, and an honorable way of life. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion, from pride and arrogance, and from every evil act.

Grant that we, who came from many nations with many different languages, may become a united people. Support us in defending our liberties, and give those to whom we have entrusted the authority of government the spirit of wisdom, that there may be justice and peace in our land. Especially do we ask you to bless this House in all its doings this day.

When times are prosperous, may our hearts be thankful, and in troubled times do not let our trust in you fail. This I ask through your Son Jesus Christ, my Lord.
Amen.

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