[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 172 (Thursday, November 2, 1995)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2103]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              MESSENGER AND MESSAGE DO NOT MEET STANDARDS

                                 ______


                             HON. MIKE WARD

                              of kentucky

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, November 2, 1995

  Mr. WARD. Mr. Speaker, every day when the House meets for morning 
hour, we begin with an invocation that is designed to acknowledge this 
country's belief in God and our dedication to our moral beliefs and to 
our duties that we are about to execute. I am afraid, however, that 
this morning's invocation did not adhere to this tradition. Instead of 
inspiration, we were greeted with a message and a messenger who does 
not meet the standards of this respected institution. The Reverend Lou 
Sheldon of the Traditional Values Coalition has consistently expressed 
a message that is exclusive rather than inclusive. With the challenges 
that face this body every day, I believe that the invocation should be 
a positive and uplifting message which cannot come from someone who has 
dedicated his life to a message of hate and divisiveness. I call on 
you, Mr. Speaker, to review the policies regarding guest chaplains and 
ensure that they adhere to the high standard that the U.S. House of 
Representatives deserves.

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