Press Releases

WASHINGTON—At the request of Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas), Father Dan Spexarth of Saint Catherine of Siena Catholic Church in Wichita offered the opening prayer in the U.S. House of Representatives today. Rep. Estes spoke on the floor of the House to introduce Fr. Spexarth, whom he requested to serve as today’s guest chaplain. Each Member of Congress can request one guest chaplain per Congress.

“Father Spexarth has been a tireless servant of God, leading an active parish committed to serving those in need in our community and throughout the world,” said Rep. Estes. “As Congress addresses many complex issues facing our nation, I am humbled by the opportunity to host Father Spexarth and thankful we can join together in prayer for our country.”

In his prayer, Fr. Spexarth prayed for those in public service and serving in our military. Fr. Spexarth was born and raised on a farm near Colwich, KS. He has been an ordained minister for more than 30 years and has served the parish of St. Catherine of Siena since 2008.

Full video of today’s opening prayer and remarks by Rep. Estes can be found here.

Ron Estes is a 5th generation Kansan and represents Kansas’ 4th congressional district in the U.S. House of Representatives. He serves on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, and the House Committee on Homeland Security.