Washington (Dec 23) ***Embargoed until 6:00 a.m. EST, December 24, 2011***
Delivering the Weekly Republican Address, Rep. Mike Pence (R-IN) marks Christmas by encouraging all Americans to find renewed strength in the faith and traditions of one another and the brave men and women of our Armed Forces. Rep. Pence represents Indiana’s Sixth Congressional District. The audio of the Weekly Republican Address is available immediately below; the video will be available for viewing and downloading after the embargo is lifted tomorrow at 6:00 a.m. EST.
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FULL TEXT TRANSCRIPT:
“Hello, I’m Mike Pence and I have the privilege of representing Indiana in our nation's Capitol.
“It’s Christmas Eve and if your family is anything like mine, today means last minute shopping, wrapping presents, and traveling to be with loved ones.
“For most here in Indiana, it's about family, hearth and home, dreaming of a white Christmas, children squinting through frosted windows to catch a glimpse of wonder in the night sky.
“For some of you, it will be a holiday on the beach or in the mountains, a candlelight service, midnight mass or a quiet gathering with friends.
“For our family, Christmas is a time when we reflect on our faith, on a promise fulfilled in a little town called Bethlehem more than 2,000 years ago with the humble birth of the Prince of Peace.
“Americans from all walks of life will celebrate the holidays in their own unique way, in accordance with their own beliefs and traditions.
“But while many of us are blessed to enter this season surrounded by loved ones with most of our needs met, too many will greet this season with heartache.
“For far too many in America, these are difficult times. Some of our neighbors, family and friends are struggling to make ends meet despite their best efforts, unable to find work in this difficult economy.
“This holiday season, let’s all make a special effort to come alongside these families in their time of need and support local charities as they provide for the needs across our communities. Let’s also make a point to personally reach out to that neighbor or friend who needs a helping hand, a kind greeting or an invitation - it might be just the gift someone needed most.
“And let's not forget those who serve in uniform at home and abroad.
“It was during another Christmas season in 1776, that a bold general led his weary army across the Delaware River on Christmas night. That night, George Washington won a battle that turned out to be a defining moment in the history of our still young nation.
“This night let us not forget those who still stand in harm’s way far from home so we can enjoy this season in peace and freedom.
“Even as one conflict draws to a close and joyful homecomings abound, let’s also remember the empty chair at every holiday table for those who won’t be with family this year by virtue of their service and sacrifice for our freedom.
“For all our soldiers and their beloved families, I pray they find peace and comfort in the true meaning of Christmas.
“These are challenging times in the life of this nation, but for all the challenges we face, we can still find renewed strength in the faith and traditions of those who have gone before.
“‘For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given.’
“From my house to your house: May God bless you and your family with a joyous holiday season. Thank you for listening, and Merry Christmas.”
TEXT CREDIT: John Boehner | speaker.gov H-232 The Capitol Washington, DC 20515 P (202) 225-0600 F (202) 225-5117
IMAGE CREDIT: Congressman Mike Pence Washington D.C. Office 1431 Longworth HOB Washington, DC 20515 (p) 202 225-3021 (f) 202 225-3382
VIDEO CREDIT: HouseConference
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