[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 122 (Tuesday, September 24, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Pages S9055-S9056]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           WELCOMING GUEST CHAPLAIN REVEREND CECIL WASHINGTON

  Mr. BROWNBACK. Madam President, I want to take a moment to recognize 
the guest Chaplain, Cecil Washington, from Topeka, KS. He has traveled 
here with his wife Audrey to be the guest Chaplain today. She is in the 
gallery.
  I have had the pleasure of knowing Reverend Washington for many 
years. He has a distinguished record as not only a dedicated and caring 
minister but as a fellow traveler, helping those in need along the way 
in many places, as I have seen him do in Kansas and across the country.
  Reverend Washington is deeply rooted in the Topeka community. He is 
committed to nurturing and guiding individuals in taking command and 
control of their lives.
  In fact, Reverend Washington founded and is director of the Prayers 
Answered, Lives Saved Recovery Group, or PALS. This organization 
provides Bible-based, Christ-centered addiction support for all 
substance abuse users.
  His organization has helped countless individuals redefine their 
lives and begin to make positive life choices for themselves and their 
loved ones.
  Reverend Washington also knows the importance of self-sufficiency. He 
is the past president of Jobs Partnership of Topeka. He has worked 
tirelessly to help see that the individuals with whom he works develop 
the skills necessary to become self-sufficient and sustain their 
independence.
  In addition, Reverend Washington has served in many capacities in the 
State of Kansas. He is the past Chaplain of both the State house of 
representatives and the State senate of Kansas. He has also served on a 
number of advisory committees and boards.
  Currently, Reverend Washington is the pastor and founder of the New 
Beginning Missionary Baptist Church in Topeka, KS. He founded this 
church in March of 1998, which has a very expansive and growing 
congregation.

[[Page S9056]]

  Finally, Reverend Washington is a sought-after minister, lecturer, 
and is the author of the book ``The Triple Solution For Our Double A 
Problem,'' published in 2001. It is probably a good book for everybody 
to read to get a triple solution to double problems.
  I am proud to have him here today. As I mentioned, he is joined by 
his wife.
  I encourage Members of the Senate, as they come to the Chamber, if 
they get a chance, to meet Reverend Washington. I think they will be 
blessed. He has shared quite a testimony.
  Some of you may recognize that he used to sing with Marvin Gaye, the 
Four Tops, and the Supremes. He has a voice, as you heard, and gave 
that for the ministry that the Lord might use it in another way. He is 
quite an individual and has been a good friend. I am glad to have him 
here as the guest Chaplain.
  I have a statement I ask unanimous consent be printed in the Record 
from Congressman Jim Ryun of the second district in Kansas, which 
serves the Topeka area.
  There being no objection, the material was ordered to be printed in 
the Record, as follows:

             Statement of Representative Jim Ryun of Kansas

       I am pleased that Pastor Cecil Washington is with us today 
     and am grateful for his willingness to open the Senate 
     Chamber in prayer.
       Pastor Washington is an exemplary citizen and a strong role 
     model. His contributions to the State of Kansas are 
     commendable and I applaud him for his service.
       Pastor Washington currently is the pastor of the New 
     Beginning Baptist Church in Topeka, KS, and previously served 
     as the Chaplain of the Kansas House of Representatives. 
     Pastor Washington, thank you for being here.
  Mr. BROWNBACK. I yield the floor.

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