Floor Statements

Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding.

Mr. Speaker, first of all, I thank my colleague, Congressman Lamborn, for once again organizing this important Special Order, as he has done many times in the past. Not only that, but I thank him for his service to this legislative body.

He has been one of the good guys here in this body that has really stood for those principles that really, I think, date back to when our Founding

Fathers first envisioned this great Nation, the United States of America.

We thank our colleague from Colorado.

Mr. Speaker, the Bible has been and, really, it still is more than just a book. It is the foundation of our moral compass. It is the inspiration behind our laws. It is the source of strength and comfort for countless families and individuals, literally around the world.

From the founding of our great Nation, we have seen how the truths that are found in the Bible have shaped our culture, have influenced our leaders, and have guided the hearts of our people.

Here in America, as in so many places around the world, we have been blessed with the freedom to worship and the right to hold our religious beliefs without fear and without persecution. Unfortunately, there are a lot of places in the world that don't have that freedom, but here in America, we do.

However, with all that is said about the Bible, let us not forget the power that is in the Word of God and how it always gives us a hope that instills so much into the lives of so many people across the world.

There have been many books that have been written over the ages, and a lot of books have sold literally millions and millions of copies, some 200 or 300 million copies. You think about books like ``A Tale of Two Cities,'' ``Don Quixote,'' ``The Lord of the Rings,'' those that rank up there, and perhaps maybe 300 or 400 million copies have been sold.

As far as I know, there is only one book that has sold into the billions, and it is estimated that over 5 billion copies of the Word of God, the Bible, has been printed and put out there, and I would say that is a very conservative number.

It is no wonder the Bible is the most popular book ever written, as it holds the key to life and actually to life everlasting, for in the New Testament, we read the words of Jesus of Nazareth, and we read about his life. The words of the Bible are different from all the other books that were written. The words of the Bible cut like a double-edged sword, yet its full life is found to its fullest, and those are the words of Jesus.

We hear the words of Jesus in John 3:16: For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son that whosoever believe in him should not perish but have everlasting life.

As a young boy, like Congressman Lamborn, I realized what that meant and wanted to have that relationship with God myself, and realizing that I could have that directly through Christ, I asked him into my life through a simple prayer. That still holds true for any person today who wants to go down that road and take God up on that offer.

I thank Congressman Lamborn this evening for his dedication, but, more than anything else, for recognizing the Bible is the book of all books. It is the Bible, for it is in the Bible that life is found.

Mr. Speaker, it is an honor to recognize the incrredible legacy of my colleague, and friend, Congresswoman Kay Granger.

I have had the pleasure of working alongside many dedicated public servants, but few have shown the consistent leadership, integrity, and commitment to their constituents that Kay has demonstrated over her incredible career in public office.

She has represented the Twelfth Congressional District of Texas with unwavering dedication in her nearly three decades in Congress.

From being the first woman elected to represent Texas' Twelfth District, to her trailblazing work as the first woman to chair the House Appropriations Committee, Kay has always set new standards of excellence in her time in Washington.

I not only serve with her as a fellow member of the Appropriations Committee, but I also had the privilege of being elected in the same class as Kay. During that time, I have witnessed the skill and dedication Kay displays first-hand. A staunch supporter of our Nation's military, a champion for infrastructure, and a force behind national security efforts, her goal has always been to advance the interests of the American people.

Kay's legacy will go far beyond the legislation. Her mentorship of countless members of this body will outlast even her biggest legislative accomplishments. Through her deep understanding of the issues, and willingness to work with both sides of the aisle, she will be remembered for putting service to the American people before partisanship.

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people in Alabama's Fourth Congressional District, I want to thank Congresswoman Granger for her service to this Nation, her invaluable contributions to Congress, and most importantly, her friendship. She will leave a legacy that will be felt for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, this certainly is a great tribute to a great man. Of course, it is with a heavy heart that we stand here this evening on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives, which, as you know, we have all stood with Dave on this floor many, many times.

This evening, we come together to recognize his life, his legacy, and what Dave Hobson really meant to this institution. Serving alongside Dave Hobson on the Appropriations Committee, I saw firsthand that he was a hard worker. He was a problem solver, but more than that, we developed a friendship that we maintained even after he retired from Congress.

Dave showed everyone the best of Ohio, but his service was not only to his State but also to this Nation. That dedication will touch generations, in my opinion, for many years to come.

I have fond memories of serving with Dave on the Appropriations Committee. As a new member, I was on the subcommittee that he chaired. That was the Military Construction Subcommittee of Appropriations.

While Dave was the chairman and while he led the committee, as a new member I got to serve as his vice chair. Of course, that doesn't mean a whole lot because Dave called the shots, as you know Dave. He, of course, obviously, valued my input as he did everyone on the Committee.

During our time at MILCON there on the Appropriations Committee, I think we did a lot of good things for the soldiers around the world. I had a chance to meet with a lot of soldiers during that time.

As we work through this loss, I think about his wife, Carolyn, who my wife, Caroline, and I got to know well during the time that they were in Washington. Of course, our heart goes out to not only Carolyn, but also to the entire family, the children, and so many of his grandchildren and family that, unfortunately, I never had a chance to meet, but I know that he talked about them quite extensively when he was here in Washington.

As I say, as we work through this loss, we can take comfort in the words of Matthew 5:4, which says: Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

Mr. Speaker, today I recognize the Republic Day of Kazakhstan, commemorating Kazakhstan's declaration of sovereignty on October 25, 1990. This pivotal moment paved the way for Kazakhstan's eventual independence from the Soviet Union and symbolizes the nation's enduring commitment to self-determination, prosperity, and peace.

Kazakhstan's early alignment with the West has significantly influenced its development. Over the past three decades, Kazakhstan has transformed into a thriving nation with a strong economy, a growing international presence, and a robust partnership with the United States.

The relationship between Kazakhstan and the United States is rooted in the shared values of democracy, economic growth, and mutual respect. As we celebrate Kazakhstan's achievements, we reaffirm our commitment to working together in addressing global challenges and promoting peace, security, and economic development.

Kazakhstan continues to be a pillar of stability in Central Asia, emerging as a global leader in nuclear nonproliferation, peacekeeping, and fostering regional cooperation. As a net contributor to peace and security not only in the region, but also globally, Kazakhstan is committed to addressing global challenges and promoting international stability.

As a religiously diverse country, it serves as a case study of peaceful coexistence. Kazakhstan hosts the Congress of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions, which has become an important venue for fostering dialogue among various faiths and serves as a unique platform for interfaith and intercultural cooperation. At a tumultuous time in the world, this event serves as an important opportunity for faith leaders to work to promote and protect freedom of religious expression and worship in Kazakhstan and in all nations.

President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's commitment to political and societal reforms is commendable. Despite external pressures, Kazakhstan has remained a peaceful and stabilizing force in Central Asia, exemplifying its dedication to democracy and Western ideals.

Kazakhstan remains a reliable and trusted partner of the United States, particularly as an active member of the World Trade Organization (WTO). This long-standing partnership highlights the importance of advancing efforts to establish Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR), ensuring that Kazakhstan's economic growth is fully acknowledged and supported within the global marketplace.

As we look to the future, the United States and Kazakhstan are poised to deepen their partnership through continued dialogue, trade, and collaboration on shared goals. Together, we are committed to fostering peace, security, and prosperity, not only in Central Asia but on the global stage.

Mr. Speaker, Lillie Cunningham, of Florence, Alabama, has hit a milestone in her life that few will ever reach. Born in 1914, she celebrated her 110th birthday on September 26, 2024.

It's difficult to imagine how different times were when Lillie was born. President Woodrow Wilson was in his first term as President, the United States had not yet entered World War I, and movies still had no sound.

Lillie has lived a life of service to her community, volunteering with the kitchen ministry at her church, and exemplifying a true servant heart in all she does.

When Lillie turned 108, she joked that she had found a secret diet that was responsible for allowing her to live to that age. Now, when asked how she has made it to 110 years old, Lillie says that there is no secret. Instead, she contributes her long, healthy life to the grace of God. Even at 110 years old, Lillie continues to do some of her favorite activities, such as cooking and finishing puzzles.

Despite all the festivities surrounding her birthday, which included: receiving a golden key to the city, a proclamation designating September 26, 2024, as Lillie Cunningham Day, and being sent over two hundred cards from people across the nation, Lillie never neglects reading her Bible.

I want to personally wish Lillie a Happy 110th Birthday. I pray that she will enjoy many more birthdays surrounded by those who love her and care for her. I know that her servant heart and love for her community will continue to inspire all those who have had the privilege of knowing her for years to come.

Mr. Speaker, I hope the entire United States House of Representatives will join me in sending our best wishes to Lillie as she continues to celebrate this remarkable milestone in her life.

Happy Birthday, Ms. Lillie.

Mr. Speaker, sitting two miles east of Haleyville, Alabama, is one of oldest Baptist churches in the state of Alabama, New Prospect Baptist Church. This church has seen generations of families file into its pews, including my own family.

As a young boy, my grandparents, J.C. and Ruby Aderholt, were members of New Prospect Baptist Church, and I not only attended many services with them but also was a regular at New Prospect's Vacation Bible School in the summers.

As New Prospect Baptist Church celebrates their 200th Anniversary, I want to take a moment to recognize this place of worship and hope within the Haleyville community, which sits in Winston County.

Founded in the fall of 1824, New Prospect Baptist Church is the oldest Baptist church in Winston County, Alabama, and is believed to be the third oldest Baptist church in the entire state of Alabama.

A sixteen by twenty-foot log building, that stood until 1884, housed the first members of New Prospect Baptist Church. Multiple iterations of that small building have since been built in the shadows of the original.

Through hard work, and overcoming a multitude of setbacks, members of the church have given their time, money, and other resources to build New Prospect Baptist Church into the center of community it stands as today.

On their 200th Anniversary, members and worship leaders at New Prospect Baptist Church are just as focused on their goal as they were on day one: to build a loving church for a living Savior and to spread the Gospel to others.

I have no doubt that New Prospect Baptist Church will remain a pillar of the Haleyville community for many generations to come, and my hope is that families will feel the joy that I felt years ago when I would attend services with my Grandparents.

Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate Brother Ronald Horton, their current pastor, and everyone who calls New Prospect Baptist Church home on their 200th Anniversary and wish them continued success in spreading the word of God as they continue to serve Winston County and the Haleyville community for another two centuries.

Truly, New Prospect Baptist Church is ``A Loving Church for a Living Savior.''

Mr. Speaker, we once again find ourselves debating a commonsense measure that would actually safeguard the American people's vote in the upcoming elections.

The rhetoric surrounding this bill is that it fixes a problem that does not exist. My answer is simple. Come to Alabama's Fourth Congressional District where just last week an illegal immigrant pleaded guilty to identity theft and voter fraud after it was discovered that she illegally voted in at least four U.S. elections.

Just last month, our secretary of state for the State of Alabama, Wes Allen, found at least 3,000 noncitizens who were registered to vote in the State of Alabama and removed them from the voting rolls.

Mr. Speaker, these people should never have been allowed to register in the first place. This is exactly what the SAVE Act will prevent.

The SAVE Act, which is included in this continuing resolution, shows the American people that their government will use every tool at our disposal to protect the sanctity of our electoral system and stop illegal votes before they are counted.

My colleagues across the aisle have talked about our shared belief that the Federal Government must remain open. Mr. Speaker, House Republicans have put forward a continuing resolution that would do just that.

Continuing resolutions are never ideal. However, in this instance, a continuing resolution is necessary and the right thing to do.

Republicans have extended an opportunity to our colleagues across the aisle to not only keep the Federal Government open but also to enhance the integrity of our elections.

The eyes of the American people are upon this Chamber this afternoon as we debate this. They are watching carefully to see if their government will take a stand to improve the sanctity and security of our electoral system and see that their Representatives fulfill our constitutional duty of responsibility of funding the United States Federal Government.

Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to vote ``yes'' on this measure.

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this legislation, H.R. 5464, to rename the Guntersville, Alabama, community- based veterans outpatient clinic to the Colonel Ola Lee Mize Department of Veterans Affairs Clinic.

I was proud to introduce this bill in honor of Colonel Ola Lee Mize, a true American hero from Alabama's Fourth Congressional District, which I am honored to represent.

Ola Lee Mize was a native of Alabama's Fourth Congressional District. He was born and raised in Albertville, a town next to Guntersville, where this clinic is located.

In 1954, as it has been stated, Colonel Mize was awarded the Medal of Honor, which is the highest military honor, by President Dwight D. Eisenhower for his heroic actions in saving a wounded soldier and leading a successful military operation in defense of Outpost Harry, as it has been described by my colleagues.

According to reports, on that day, of the 56 Americans involved in the Outpost Harry battle, only 8 survived. Colonel Mize served his country with honor for more than 30 years in the United States Army.

Among his many other accomplishments were numerous additional deployments, including multiple tours in Vietnam as a Green Beret, rising to the rank of colonel and serving as commander of the Special Forces School at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

In addition to the Medal of Honor, Colonel Mize's other military declarations include two Legion of Merits, the Silver Star, five Bronze Stars, and the Purple Heart.

Following his retirement from the Army in 1982, Colonel Mize spent his remaining years in Gadsden, Alabama, in neighboring Etowah County, until he passed away in 2014.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Mize, and a daughter, Teresa Peterson, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Like I said before, Colonel Mize was a true American hero, and the people of Alabama's Fourth Congressional District are proud to call him our own. We will not forget the legacy he left behind, and neither should any American. That is why renaming the veterans clinic in Guntersville will honor Colonel Mize's service and inspire future generations of Alabamians.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues, Chairman Bost and Ranking Member Takano, for their work in bringing this legislation to the floor today.

Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my colleagues to join me in supporting this legislation.

Mr. Speaker, today I offer my congratulations to the Kate Duncan Smith DAR School on the occasion of its 100th anniversary.

The Kate Duncan Smith DAR School had its beginnings at the Eighth State Conference of the Alabama Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution in December of 1906 with the passing of a Resolution to ``adopt measures to insure greater Patriotic Education throughout the State.''

During the early 20th Century, consistent public education was not widely available in the mountainous region of northeast Alabama.

Following years of dreaming, planning and fundraising, the Alabama Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution opened the Kate Duncan Smith School on February 26, 1924. The picturesque campus of the school is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, through a resolution adopted by its membership in April of 1928, joined the Alabama Daughters in support of the Kate Duncan Smith DAR School.

Members of the Gunter Mountain community and surrounding areas made tremendous sacrifices to secure the school for the children of Gunter Mountain.

The Marshall County Board of Education partners with the Kate Duncan Smith DAR School Board of Trustees to ensure students are receiving quality educational instruction within a safe learning environment.

The mission of the Kate Duncan Smith DAR School is to provide opportunities for educational and personal growth for students, while emphasizing patriotism, responsible citizenship, and the historical legacy of the school.

The Kate Duncan Smith DAR School serves any child living atop Gunter Mountain and surrounding areas, and currently has an enrollment of more than 1,310 children. The school has provided outstanding educational opportunities to its students and support for the community's many and diverse families for 100 years.

The Board of Trustees of the Kate Duncan Smith DAR School believes, as did the school's founders, in maintaining the ''same spirit of dedication to achievement, patriotic and moral values, and service to community and country . . . on the campus today as it did in the early years of this unique educational experiment of the Daughters of the American Revolution.''

I congratulate the Kate Duncan Smith DAR School on its Centennial Anniversary of providing students with a patriotic learning environment and on all it has accomplished in its first century. I am pleased to honor and celebrate the school's legacy.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association on the occasion of its 60th anniversary. For six decades, this organization has been a steadfast advocate for tourism in the North Alabama region, significantly contributing to the economic vitality and cultural richness of our state.

Founded in 1964, the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association was established with the vision of promoting the diverse and breathtaking landscapes of North Alabama, which range from the majestic Appalachian Mountains in the east to serene lakes and vibrant vistas in the west. Over the years, Alabama Mountain Lakes has been instrumental in showcasing the natural beauty, historical landmarks, and unique attractions that make this region a cherished destination for tourists from across the Nation and around the world.

Under the dedicated leadership of its board and staff, Alabama Mountain Lakes has successfully partnered with local businesses, governments, and communities to enhance tourism infrastructure, support local economies, and preserve the region's natural and cultural heritage. The Association's innovative marketing campaigns, educational initiatives, and community engagement efforts have not only attracted countless visitors but have also fostered a deep sense of pride among residents.

The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association is committed to sharing with the rest of Alabama, the South, and the nation the great attractions, festivals, restaurants, and other entertainment options that North Alabama has to offer. From the W.C. Handy Music Festival in Florence to the Christkindlmarkt in Cullman, to the World's Longest Yardsale in DeKalb County, there is something for everyone.

As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association for 60 years of outstanding service. Their tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on our state, and I am confident that they will continue to inspire and lead in the years to come.

Mr, Speaker, please join me in recognizing the Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association for their exceptional contributions to the tourism industry and the lasting impact they have made on North Alabama and beyond.

Mr. Speaker, today I recognize the achievements, dedication, and hard work of William `Bill' Phillips of Bell Buckle, Tennessee. Bill has lived a life dedicated to serving his Nation and keeping our military the strongest in the world.

Bill grew up on a farm in Tennessee and received a bachelor's degree from Middle Tennessee State University in Agriculture. This, however, was just the first of many educational degrees Bill would achieve. He also earned a Master's in Personnel Management, a Master's in Procurement and Material Management, and a Master's from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces.

In addition to his educational achievements, Bill also served our Nation in the United States Army. Bill retired as a Lieutenant General in May of 2014 while serving as the Army's Senior Acquisition Officer. He also served in the role of an Army Aviator with more than 30 years of experience. Bill became certified on the CH-47, UH-1, and OH-58 helicopters.

After retiring from the Army, Bill began a second career in the private sector. In May of 2015, Bill began working for Boeing as the Vice President for Army and Special Operations. At Boeing, Bill was in charge of five offices: Huntsville, AL, Fort Eustis, VA, Fort Novosel, AL, Tampa, FL, Aberdeen Proving Ground, MD, and Austin, TX.

Among Bill's other achievements are Middle Tennessee ROTC Hall of Fame, 2018, Defense Acquisition University Hall of Fame, 2014, Army's Acquisition Commander of the Year, 2000.

Bill and his wife, Marylyn, reside in Bell Buckle, Tennessee, where Bill still farms.

On behalf of our Nation, I thank Bill Phillips and congratulate him for all he has achieved personally and for the efforts and sacrifices he has made for our country.

Madam Speaker, in honor of the upcoming 80th anniversary of D-day, I rise to share the words of Motor Mechanic Mate First Class Paul Hudson Atkins of Sheffield, Alabama, in Alabama's Fourth Congressional District. He was one of the first wave of soldiers that had landed on Omaha beach.

On June 6, 1944, Mr. Atkins wrote the following letter from Omaha Beach:

First bunch of parachute boys are to hit behind enemy lines

somewhere between 0630 and 0930. Heavy gunfire going out on

the horizon. Mostly planes overhead headed for France.

General granted at 0500. Destroyer ahead shot up three

mines. Ships everywhere to the right and to the left and as

far as can be seen. Must be in the thousands of our small

boats out in the water.

The water was exceptionally rough for small boats. We

headed for the beach. Four small boats out of 900.

On LST, Landing Ship, Tank, 511, pick up wounded.

Battleships and destroyers firing over our heads. I could see

floating bodies on the water, some of the bodies dismembered,

floating in life jackets.

Small crafts sunk along the beaches. All sorts of obstacles

in the water out to about 500 yards. Only four of our small

boats were dispatched to the beach. Another one sent to Omaha

Beach to assist.

Madam Speaker, this letter that I just read serves as a powerful reminder of the harrowing scenes Allied forces were faced with and the bravery they exemplified on D-Day.

I thank my colleague, Congressman Moore of Alabama, for organizing this remembrance for those who fought so valiantly for our freedoms and for giving us the opportunity to continue to tell the stories of these great Americans.

May God bless each of those soldiers and their families, and may God bless America.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of these Nicaraguan pastors, ministry leaders of Mountain Gateway, who are unable to speak for themselves.

I thank my colleague from Alabama for taking this time of the Special Order to discuss this issue, to bring it to the attention of the American people, and, really, to the world.

He has been a great champion on this, and there are many members of our delegation in Alabama, and, really, across the country, that are very concerned about what we have heard going on in Nicaragua and the situation down there.

Unfortunately, so many of the American people are very unaware of what the situation is just a few hundred miles south of our border here in the United States of America.

These leaders, as has been already mentioned, but it should be repeated. These leaders have been convicted by the Nicaraguan government on sham charges. They now face up to 15 years in prison and $80 million in fines each.

The arrests came after these courageous pastors led a series of revivals that were authorized by the Nicaraguan government. They were rounded up, and they were imprisoned shortly after a mass outpouring of faith in the capital city.

Mr. Speaker, it is an act of religious persecution that put these men and women in prison, these pastors, these leaders, these spiritual leaders, these ministry leaders. It is human rights violations that have kept them in prison.

Again, I am so thankful that we live in a country where we do not have to worry about going to prison. I think so many Americans take for granted all the many freedoms that we have in this country.

One of those main freedoms that we have is that we get to worship freely. We can worship freely, whether it be at an outdoor revival, whether it be in a large event, small event, or just being at home reading our Bible. We don't have to worry about being sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Myself, as a young boy who accepted Christ in my own life, I can now be in Congress, and I can be a citizen here in this United States and not worry about the threat of prison being hung over my head. We can worship freely whether it is to go to an outdoor revival, a program that was such as happened in Nicaragua, or whether it is to simply go to a small church service or just simply being at home with some other Christians sitting around, reading or praying the Bible together.

During this time when we are reflecting on what is going on here, I encourage the American people to reach out to their Members of Congress and to encourage them to do what they can to stand with those of us who are trying to call attention to this very serious issue.

This not only goes on in Nicaragua, but it also goes on in many other parts of the world, as well. Today, we certainly want to call attention to those pastors and ministry leaders from Mountain Gateway who aren't able to speak for themselves and be a voice here in the United States House of Representatives.

We ask for their release, and I would call on the Nicaraguan government to take action to address these indisputable violations and to free these men and women so that they can be returned to their homes and their families.

Mr. Speaker, hunger and food insecurity are issues that plague many nations around the world. Luckily, within the district that I represent, there is an international organization working to alleviate this concern by working with farmers around the world to improve agricultural practices and teaching about advancements in fertilizer technology.

Founded in October 1974, the International Fertilizer Development Center (IFDC) was created to fill a gap found in the inability to field international calls for assistance by the Tennessee Valley Authority's National Fertilizer Development Center.

After just shy of three years in operation, the IFDC was designated a public international organization in March 1977.

On this 50th anniversary, the staff that makes up the IFDC are working just as hard as they were on day one to make sure people around the world do not just have access to food, but have the knowledge needed to grow this food so that they can create a sustainable agricultural process that will feed generations.

The IFDC is headquartered in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, and currently operates in over 25 countries. President and CEO Henk van Duijn, along with the rest of the International Fertilizer Development Center's Global Management Team, Dr. Oumou Camara, Chris Holt, Douglas Kerr, and Dr. Upendra Singh, make up an outstanding team that delivers needed expertise to countries around the world.

I want to thank each and everyone at the International Fertilizer Development Center for their 50 years of service to the international community. They have provided a way for people across the world to grow food and feed their communities. Congratulations to them on their incredible achievements and for representing the very best of the United States by making significant contributions to the international community. I look forward to continued great work and the success of everyone at IFDC.

Mr. Speaker, I thank Congresswoman Miller for organizing this and working with Concerned Women for America to make April Faith Month. It is an honor to be a part of this, to recognize a country where we can recognize our faith.

I know and understand and recognize the distinct opportunity that we have as Americans to worship freely, to come alongside each other with great respect and also to respect various viewpoints. We are blessed to live in a country where we can worship freely. It is a very important part of the fabric of the United States of America.

When I have visitors come to the United States Capitol, I like to take them into the rotunda. In the rotunda, there is a painting called the ``Embarkation of the Pilgrims.'' That painting depicts a pastor as they are getting on board the deck of the Speedwell in 1620, gathered in prayer as they go toward and look for a new nation where they can worship freely, which would ultimately become the United States of America. I like that painting because it reminds us of the freedom that we have here in this country even today.

Tonight, there are about 11 pastors in Nicaragua who don't have that freedom. They are in prison for 12 to 15 years, because of their faith, in the country of Nicaragua.

Here in the United States, we don't have to worry about that. As a young boy back in Alabama who recognized that I needed Christ in my own life and accepted Christ as my Savior, I am reminded that I have that freedom and don't have to worry about going to prison or facing jail time merely because of my faith to follow Christ, which is something I try to do, as you say, Congresswoman, on a day-to-day basis, even though, as you know, we all fall short of that standard.

In closing, I thank my colleague from Illinois for organizing this time, bringing us together, and reminding us that this country was built not on mountains of money and not on great prosperity but on the faith of so many people who came before us wanting to worship freely and to honor our God and maker.