[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 11 (Wednesday, January 20, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Pages S71-S72]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
OPENING DAY OF IOWA LEGISLATURE'S 89TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY
Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, on January 11, I had the honor of
administering the oath of office to Iowa's speaker of the house,
Patrick Grassley, who also happens to be my grandson. It was a
privilege for me and my family to participate in the opening day of the
Iowa Legislature's 89th General Assembly. Pat has represented the
people of house district 50 since 2007. He is in his second year
serving his caucus as speaker.
In addition to celebrating Pat's professional accomplishments, we
were also moved by the prayer that was written and shared by our great
granddaughter Reagan, alongside her siblings Indee and Chance, as the
legislature convened.
I ask unanimous consent that a copy of Reagan's prayer be printed in
the Record following my remarks.
She is 11 years old. Barbara and I are truly blessed to spend
memorable days like this one together as a family.
There being no objection, the material was ordered to be printed in
the Record, as follows:
State of Iowa House Journal
MONDAY, JANUARY 11, 2021
First Calendar Day--First Session Day
Hall of the House of Representatives
Des Moines, Iowa, Monday, January 11, 2021
Pursuant to chapter two (2), sections two point one (2.1)
and two point three (2.3), Code of Iowa, the House of
Representatives of the Eighty-ninth General Assembly of Iowa,
2021 Regular Session, convened at 10:03 a.m., Monday, January
11, 2021.
The House was called to order by the Honorable John Wills,
state representative from Dickinson County.
Prayer was offered by Reagan Grassley. She is the daughter
of Speaker Grassley.
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank you for bringing us here today.
Thank you for giving these leaders the opportunity to not
only serve the state of Iowa, but to serve you.
You are a good father who promises beauty for ashes and joy
for our sadness, but we are hurting Father. This world is
hurting. We pray that we can learn to love ourselves, and
others in this room, more like you.
In a broken world these truths remain: you are pain taker,
a way maker, and a chain breaker.
[[Page S72]]
May our lives be a direct reflection of who you are and our
service would show your goodness.
We pray that you will continue to protect us and keep us
safe.
In your son's name we pray, Amen.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Indee, Reagan and
Chance Grassley. They are the children of Speaker Grassley.
____________________