July 26, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Congressman Jason Altmire (PA-04) today welcomed Reverend Miroslaus Stelmaszczyk, Reverend for the Holy Family Church in Creighton, Pennsylvania, to the U.S. House of Representatives as the guest chaplain. At Congressman Atlmire's request, the House Chaplain granted approval for "Father Miro" to serve as guest chaplain for the day. More than 30 parishioners joined "Father Miro" at the U.S. Capitol to watch as he gave the opening prayer of today's session of the House.

"In the midst of one of the most contentious congressional debates in recent history, I knew just who to bring to Washington to bring people together," Congressman Altmire said. "For 12 of his 36 years in the priesthood, Father Miro has served the people of western Pennsylvania, providing spiritual guidance and unwavering support. It was my honor to welcome him to the House of Representatives, and I thank him for his many years of support back home in Pennsylvania."

Father Miro has been with the Diocese of Pittsburgh since 1986. Originally from Poland, he has won numerous awards including "Citizen of the Year in 1993" and "Polonian of the Year in 2004." He is known in the Pittsburgh area for his charity work and dedication to the people of the diocese. Before giving the prayer, Father Miro met with Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-OH). Following the House opening ceremonies, Congressman Altmire led Father Miro and his parishioners on a tour of the U.S. Capitol.

Each Member of Congress can nominate one person per year to be the guest chaplain for a day of the House of Representatives. Congressman Altmire previously nominated Rev. George Werner from Pittsburgh, PA to serve as guest chaplain in 2009 and Rev. Donald Green in 2007.

To view a video of the Father Miro's opening prayer on the House floor and Congressman Altmire's speech, please click here.