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Today Phil Crenshaw, a long-time Lubbock resident and the last living chaplain’s assistant from World War II, served as guest chaplain for the House of Representatives. Mr. Crenshaw opened the House floor in prayer.

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A transcript of Mr. Crenshaw’s prayer follows below: “Dear Holy Father, “It is with grateful hearts we begin this day with Thee, the Author and Finisher of our faith. “We come praying for Thy blessing for every man and woman in this assembly, representing all the people of our great nation. “We recognize our inability to exist at our best without Thy supreme wisdom, for Thou hast said, ‘A contrite heart, O God, thou will not despise.' “And because of this, we seek supreme direction in the deliberation and our need for divine petition. “We further recognize our imperfection and beseech Thy forgiveness when unintentional errors in judgment are forthcoming. “Grant, dear Father, Thy unhindered blessing to all those assembled at this moment, remembering Thy words, ‘Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.’ “Thank you for loving us and praying that we may in turn love you with grateful overflowing hearts. “In Jesus name we pray. Amen.” Following Mr. Crenshaw’s prayer, Congressman Arrington delivered remarks on the House floor to recognize him for his service to God and country.

 

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“Mister Speaker, the Good Book says, a righteous man’s prayers availeth much. What a prayer, Mr. Crenshaw. What a man. What a great American. “Mister Speaker, I rise today to recognize our guest chaplain and my dear friend of mine, Mr. Phil Crenshaw. “Mr. Crenshaw’s life has taken him across the globe, from serving our country in World War II to spreading the Gospel of Jesus in places like Norway, Israel, Russia and India. At every stop on his journey, Mr. Crenshaw’s mission has always been the same: to love God and serve people.  “While stationed in Okinawa, he ministered to Marines, soldiers, and airmen as well as over 4,000 Japanese POWs, living out God’s commandment to love not just our neighbors, but our enemies as well.  “Over the years following his return from war, Mr. Crenshaw, along with his late wife Ruth with who he was married for 66 years, opened up their home and their hearts to more than 50 young people who were in need of a place to stay, some of them orphans. “At 95, Mr. Crenshaw is the last living chaplain’s assistant from World War II, and still he lives every day to the fullest, serving our community and serving the Lord with all of his heart, with all his soul and with all his strength. “Mr. Crenshaw, your life of personal sacrifice and faithful service to our country and to the Kingdom of God is an inspiration to all of us, and we are all honored to have you here this day. “God bless you, Mr. Crenshaw; God bless this country you fought for and served; and go West Texas!”