I arrived in Washington, D.C. on Tuesday afternoon, April 29, and immediately began visiting offices in the Cannon House Office Building. After being away for several weeks, it was a joy to reconnect with members of Congress and their staff.
Part of the reason for my time away from Capitol Hill was the Congressional recess, but it was also due to undergoing another surgery on my left rotator cuff and bicep tendon. Though I’m currently in a sling, I remain committed to encouraging, praying with, and supporting those serving on the Hill.
On Wednesday, I continued visiting congressional offices. Upon entering the office of one representative, I chatted with the young chief of staff. He shared how his Christian faith had grown while working for this representative. This member of Congress has been a living witness of Christ to her staff. Pray for the thousands of young people that work on Capitol Hill. And pray for more members of Congress who will live out their faith publicly.
Later Wednesday, I prepared for a special evening event held in the Capitol. The Washington – A Man of Prayer event is a powerful opportunity for members of Congress to come together in honoring our nation’s first President, George Washington, as a man deeply rooted in prayer.
Many are unaware—including some members of Congress—that the very first act of the first U.S. Congress was to hold a worship service while in session. As noted by the Senate Historical Office:
Three days before George Washington took the oath of office as the first president of the United States, Congress passed the following resolution: Resolved, That after the oath shall have been administered to the President, he, attended by the Vice President and members of the Senate and House of Representatives, shall proceed to St. Paul’s Chapel, to hear divine service. Accordingly, the Right Rev. Samuel Provoost (1742–1815), newly appointed chaplain of the United States Senate and first Episcopal bishop of New York, officiated at a service in St. Paul's Chapel on April 30, 1789, immediately following Washington’s inauguration, with the newly inaugurated President and members of Congress present.
There’s no question—our nation's foundation was laid in prayer.
Wednesday evening’s gathering in the Rayburn Room was a powerful night of worship, with heartfelt prayers offered by members of Congress and several pastors. Congresswoman Kat Cammack of Florida and Congresswoman Mary Miller of Illinois served as gracious hosts. I had the honor of singing several selections, and LU Praise once again made a beautiful and impactful contribution to the evening.
I’ll be returning to Capitol Hill in the coming days to continue my mission of encouragement among members and staff. We’re also preparing to host Christian artist Michael W. Smith for an evening of worship in the Capitol. Please join us in praying for Michael and for the Lord’s presence to move in a powerful way.
Blessings,
Steve