Lubbock Pastor Brings Prayer and West Texas Spirit to the U.S. Capitol

On Wednesday morning in Washington, D.C., the voice opening up the U.S. House of Representatives in prayer wasn’t from a big-city minister or national figure — it was from right here in the Hub City. Rev. Elliott Powell, pastor of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Lubbock, was invited to serve as guest chaplain for the House of Representatives, where he delivered the morning prayer on the House floor.

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The invitation came from Congressman Jodey Arrington (TX-19), who currently serves as House Budget Chairman, and was joined in the honor by House Speaker Mike Johnson (LA-04). For Pastor Powell, it was an unforgettable moment — representing both his church community and the people of West Texas at the very heart of America’s democracy.

A Prayer for Leaders in a Divided Time

In his prayer, Rev. Powell reflected on the blessings and challenges facing the nation:

“Sovereign and gracious God, we give you thanks for the United States of America as it marks 250 years of democratic life… Bestow upon them clarity and courage, conviction and civility. Be their strength in a time of uncommon burdens, be their shield in a season too often shadowed by politically motivated violence.”

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He closed in the “strong and saving name of Jesus Christ”, bringing a distinctly faithful and heartfelt tone to the chamber. His prayer came at a time when Washington, and the nation as a whole, is wrestling with deep political divides — making his words about clarity, courage, and civility all the more timely.

Arrington Honors His Pastor

Following the prayer, Congressman Arrington delivered remarks on the House floor, calling it “a great honor and delight to hear the familiar voice of my pastor, Elliott Powell, opening up the People’s House with prayer.”

He went on to highlight Pastor Powell’s impact in Lubbock, introducing his wife Shannon Aycock Powell, their three children — Lila, Charyssa, and Adam — along with their niece Chloe, who joined him in Washington for the occasion. Arrington also spoke about how he and his wife Anne have been “blessed beyond measure” by the Westminster community.

Arrington even tied the moment back to history, quoting 19th-century thinker Alexis de Tocqueville, who famously wrote, “America is great because America is good.” He credited that “goodness” to the faith communities across the country and leaders like Powell who carry their message forward.

A Big Moment for Lubbock

The role of guest chaplain is a tradition that dates back to the very first Congress in 1789, and it’s not every day that someone from Lubbock gets to step into that role on the national stage. For Powell, who has spent years shepherding his flock at Westminster Presbyterian, it was a chance to remind the nation that faith and community remain at the heart of America’s story.

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And for Lubbock, it’s another reminder that while Washington may feel a world away, West Texas values and voices continue to make an impact far beyond the city limits!