All Pawtucket All The Time

Congressman Kennedy and Father Kieton

Washington, DC – Congressman Patrick J. Kennedy (D-RI) hosted a pair of spiritual leaders from Rhode Island today at the 58^th annual National Prayer Breakfast.  Joining Kennedy at the gathering of religious leaders and government officials were Rabbi Melvin Herbert Eskovitz of the Touro Synagogue in Newport, and Fr. Dennis Kieton, chaplain of the Cumberland Police Department.

“It was an honor to be joined by Rabbi Eskovitz and Father Kieton for this momentous event, and I am pleased that I was able to share this experience with two of Rhode Island’s finest and most well-respected religious leaders,” said Kennedy.  “Each year, this breakfast and the surrounding events are a unique opportunity for people of all beliefs and from all over the globe to come together.  It is an opportunity to celebrate the fact that our seemingly insurmountable differences belie the purpose each of us shares to better the world for our community.”

The National Prayer Breakfast is one of the few annual events attended by members of all three branches of the federal government including the President, the Vice President, Congressional leaders, and Supreme Court justices. The event was initiated during the Eisenhower Administration by Members of Congress.  Last year’s event included remarks from President Obama and a keynote address by former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.

“It is an honor to represent the oldest synagogue in the United States at such a prestigious gathering of leaders of all walks of faith.  I appreciate Congressman Kennedy extending this opportunity to me” said Rabbi Eskovitz.

“I am deeply moved that I was given the chance partake in this assembly of members from varying faiths,” said Fr. Kieton.  “I would like to express my gratitude to Congressman Kennedy for offering the invitation.”