.jpg)
CROFTON—It’s been a year of new things for Justin Bossman.He retired from teaching from Crofton High School; he was hired as the pastor at Crofton Congregational Church; and he became a college student again to obtain his ordination degree. This week he was able to add one more new experience to that list. On Friday, January 23, Pastor Bossman participated in the Chaplain of the Day program at the State Capitol in Lincoln and gave the opening prayer to start the day’s session of the Unicameral.
Senator Barry DeKay’s office had sent out a letter that offered the opportunity for clergy in his district to participate in the program by contacting his office in Lincoln. After a brief discussion with his wife,Karla, Pastor Bossman decided to pursue the opportunity. “My thought was that someone was going to offer the prayer to start the session, so why not someone from our part of the state?” said Bossman. After an email and a phone call, everything was arranged.
“There were very clear guidelines for offering the prayer to start the session. No comments could be made before or after the prayer.The prayer couldn’t be any longer than two minutes. The prayer couldn’t attempt to sway the thinking of the senators on any legislation or topic they were considering.The prayer had to be non-denominational in nature,” explained Pastor Bossman.
“My former freshmen English class students will be glad to knowthat I practiced what I preached in my career as a teacher. I prepared my prayer early, on Tuesday, and made sure to time it and to practice it,” commented Bossman. “For decades I told my students that there were real world instances for the information we had learned. This was one of those situations. Was I nervous? Of course! It was an intimidating situation, but it went well.”
“Overall, I have to say: what a great experience! Senator DeKay was very hospitable and engaging. He took us through parts of the Capitol that few people get an opportunity to see. After the prayer, I received very complimentary comments and handshakes from the Senators, who thanked me for being there. To God be the glory for this wonderful opportunity to serve Him in a new way,” said Pastor Bossman.
If you would like to read the prayer as presented, please visit the Crofton Congregational Church’s Facebook page: @CroftonNECongregationalChurch.
