EC From DC - May 8, 2013

I had the honor recently of introducing Admiral Michael Mullen, who served as the 17th Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff from 2007 to 2011. We were in Independence at the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum. Admiral Mullen was given the Public Service Award. And it is an award, in my opinion, that he is greatly deserving of. He led the military during a critical period of transition, overseeing the end of the combat mission in Iraq, and helping develop a new military strategy for Afghanistan. He has worked for the rapid development of innovative technologies to be used in the field. He has championed emerging and enduring international partnerships. And he has advanced new methods for fighting terrorism. Admiral Mullen also spearheaded the repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell'. I look forward to working with the Admiral in his ongoing efforts to assist those who have served, increasing national interest in hiring veterans, and continuing to help with their transition to civilian life.

I was so honored this week to present a United States flag to Concordia Mayor Donald Holtcamp for the Concordia Community Center. This flag was flown over the United States Capitol. State Representative Glen Kolkmeyer, a Republican from Lafayette County, was also in attendance and presented a flag from Missouri. It was a pleasure to be joined by members of Beta Sigma Phi, as well.

The evening was an opportunity to share with the community my strong belief that those of us in Congress need to start working together, instead of constantly fighting each other. It is my hope that the flag presented will symbolize a connection between Concordia and Washington. And, in turn, that it will serve as a reminder to all elected officials that we must continually and constantly reach across the aisle to assist all of our constituents to the best of our ability.

This week was also a celebration in Odessa to mark the National Day of Prayer. There were many ministers from various faiths present who prayed with the group. Numerous community residents, business leaders, and local, state, and federal officials were also in attendance. This event was organized by the National Day of Prayer task force in Odessa and began with a breakfast and reception. The mission is to pray for our nation, government leaders, and all citizens. This day was established in 1952 designating the first Thursday in May as the National Day of Prayer. It was originally signed by President Harry Truman, and was amended in 1988 and then signed by President Ronald Reagan.

The word "call" is one that is commonly used by the clergy in reference to their entry into the ministry. That is to say, they were drawn to the low compensation of religious service. Ministers respond to "holy orders."

After almost a decade in the House, and 40 years in the ministry of the United Methodist Church, I have come to believe that many representatives, from both sides, were called. Remember, if you consider serving in Congress as a vocation, well, it carries a germinative meaning from the Latin word vocare, an answer to a call.

I once read Abraham Lincoln was so moved when he saw a black African slave girl sold on a slave auction block that it called him to public service, and ultimately to the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. To each Member of the House, the "call" likely came uniquely, but it was a call nevertheless. And I doubt seriously that the call was to fight our own countrymen who see political issues differently.

Emanuel Cleaver, II Member of Congress