[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 176 (Thursday, December 12, 2013)]
[House]
[Page H7698]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   WELCOMING REVEREND DR. JOHN LOUDON

  The SPEAKER. Without objection, the gentleman from Florida (Mr. Ross) 
is recognized for 1 minute.
  There was no objection.
  Mr. ROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in gratitude that my good friend 
Pastor Mike Loudon from my home church in Lakeland, Florida, could give 
the opening prayer in the United States House of Representatives.
  Pastor Mike, as he is known back home, and his wife, Joyce, have 
lived a life of dedication to their faith and their family. Pastor 
Mike's ministry serves as an inspiration to everyone. Truly, he is a 
great man with a legacy of what counts in life and the life hereafter.
  Pastor Mike is a pillar in the Lakeland and Polk County communities. 
He is active in Rotary Club and is a strong leader, a man of God, and 
has a fantastic sense of humor.
  Pastor Mike has served churches across the country prior to coming to 
First Presbyterian Church in Lakeland in 1999. His messages are 
uplifting, encouraging, and always resonate with me. I am honored to 
have him as my pastor and as my friend.
  I join countless others in expressing a deep thankfulness for his 
willing spirit to serve and the privilege of having him give the 
opening prayer today.

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