MISSISSIPPI LEGISLATURE
2011 Regular Session
To: Rules
By: Senator(s) McDaniel, Burton, Butler (38th), Carmichael, Chassaniol, Clarke, Dearing, Dickerson, Fillingane, Gollott, Hewes, Jackson (11th), Jordan, King, Kirby, Lee (35th), Moffatt, Montgomery, Ward, Watson, Yancey, Harden
A RESOLUTION TO AMEND THE SENATE RULES TO AUTHORIZE THE APPOINTMENT OF A CHAPLAIN FOR THE MISSISSIPPI SENATE.
WHEREAS, throughout the history of the United States, its citizens and inhabitants have drawn strength, hope and guidance from prayer. From the very first Continental Congress through every form of adversity and blessing, Americans have fallen to their knees and implored God Almighty to protect their family and to heal their land; and
WHEREAS, the freedom upon which America is founded affords the right to any individual to decline to pray if he or she desires. However, that same freedom allows those who believe in the power of prayer to utilize that great opportunity to ask God to bless and sustain our nation; and
WHEREAS, that freedom is not diminished merely because one is elected to public office. The cloak of authority placed upon the shoulders of a public servant should be an inspiration for those who believe in the power of prayer to use that great power to ask God to bless and sustain the nation they love and serve; and
WHEREAS, in order to encourage, train and support legislative leaders in every field who believe in the power of prayer, and to highlight the vital role that prayer and Judeo-Christian principles have played in the history of our nation and our state in strengthening the fabric of our society, at all times consistent with the progress of our state and with the well-being of our fellow Mississippians:
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF MISSISSIPPI, That the Senate Rules are amended by inserting Rule No. 20A to read as follows:
20A. There shall be a Chaplain of the Senate appointed annually by the President of the Senate. The Chaplain shall not be compensated for his services and the position shall be nondenominational. The duties of the Chaplain shall be to attend at least one (1) day per week during the regular session to offer prayer, when requested, at the beginning of that day's session, and in addition to minister and counsel the members of the Senate and staff.