| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Contact: David Ward |
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| February 7, 2008 | (202) 225-3484 |
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| WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Congressman Hensarling (TX-05) and Pastor Jay Abernathy, of First Baptist Church Palestine, joined President Bush, Members of Congress, and 3,400 guests to pray for America and its leaders at the 56th annual National Prayer Breakfast. “The first cornerstone of the American dream is faith. Faith is the very foundation of our freedom,” said Congressman Hensarling. “It is exciting to gather together with my constituents, colleagues, the President, and guest from many nations to exercise this freedom, give thanks for our blessings, and pray for the future of our nation. “The opportunity to meet with these leaders and set aside our political agendas to employ our most important tool – prayer – is a rare and valued occasion. During this time, we are reminded of our human limitations and are humbled together to receive guidance from our Creator.” Pastor Jay Abernathy and his wife, Kelle, attended the National Prayer Breakfast as Congressman Hensarling’s guest. Pastor Abernathy became a Christian after he survived being hit by a car and has been involved in church ministry since the age of 21. The Abernathys have served at First Baptist Church Palestine for eight years and have three children. The National Prayer Breakfast, a bipartisan event, is chaired by Members of Congress. In 1952, Congress hosted the first National Prayer Breakfast with President Dwight D. Eisenhower. Since then, it has become a vital tradition for leaders to gather on the first Thursday in February to pray for our nation and the preservation of faith and values. “I want to express my genuine appreciation for the Americans who are dedicated to praying for my colleagues and me on a regular basis. It gives me great encouragement when a constituent says they’re praying for me as I work to advance the cause of liberty,” said Congressman Hensarling. |