[Congressional Record Volume 141, Number 191 (Monday, December 4, 1995)]
[Senate]
[Page S17881]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            TRIBUTE TO THE REVEREND DR. RICHARD C. HALVERSON

  Mr. SPECTER. Mr. President, I have sought recognition to honor the 
memory of our long-time Senate Chaplain and spiritual leader, Dr. 
Richard Halverson, who passed away November 28. Dr. Halverson served as 
Chaplain for 14 years, joining the Senate in 1981 shortly after I, too, 
entered the Senate. He retired this past March after distinguished 
service to this body and to the Nation.
  As Senate Chaplain, Dr. Halverson played many roles. His prayers 
would open each daily session of the Senate, often reminding Senators 
of the higher objectives of our work. When passions ran high over 
controversial legislation, Dr. Halverson's opening prayers would give 
Senators pause for reflection and helped maintain the Senate's 
tradition of reasoned, respectful debate.
  I came to know Dr. Halverson well through his attendance at our Bible 
study sessions, where he came to learn and share his thoughts on the 
Old Testament. He was a gracious, valued participant and we benefited 
from his spiritual insight.
  As many know, Dr. Halverson established himself as a Chaplain who 
never tired of selfless service. He was always available to spend time 
with someone who needed his time, either for spiritual guidance or 
counsel. His energies were not just directed at Senators, but at their 
spouses and staffs, and hundreds of Senate employees. In this role, he 
played a vital role in keeping the fabric of the U.S. Senate together.
  The Senate was a better place for having had the compassionate 
service of Dr. Halverson as its Chaplain for 14 years, and the Nation 
owes him its gratitude for the role he played in our midst.
  My wife, Joan, and I extend our heartfelt condolences to Dr. 
Halverson's wife, Doris, and his many children and grandchildren. We 
will all miss his faithful, caring presence.

                          ____________________