Political Quotes

“Mr. President, I rise simply to give honor and gratitude that this morning our opening prayer was offered by the Reverend Dr. Silvester Beaman of AME Zion on the East Side of Wilmington, a great voice for justice in my home State. I think it is a critical and important part of our Nation's tradition that we begin every session of the Senate with prayerful reflection. I am thrilled that today he is able to be joined by his wife Renee, a registered nurse, and to be able to comment for a moment that Rev. Dr. Beaman, born in Niagara Falls, NY, who started his mission work and his service in Hamilton, Bermuda, with his wife, early on saw the challenges of HIV/AIDS and the risks and opportunities for worship and for mission that this pandemic provides to our community. He has been with us now 19 years in Delaware. The two of them have been recognized far and wide in our State and region for the beautiful Gate Outreach Ministry they have launched. I think it was Dietrich Bonhoeffer who first said most tellingly that it is the charge of ministry to afflict the comfortable and comfort the afflicted. Pastor Beaman, through his leadership, his vision, his compelling sermons, and his compelling example, in partnership with his wife Renee, has provided exactly that sort of challenging and effective leadership, that great and prophetic voice for our community in Wilmington, DE. I am grateful for the opportunity to have his prayerful reflections begin our deliberations today.…”