Mr. MICA. Mr. Speaker, this morning, it is my distinct pleasure and really and truly an honor to welcome father John J. Ryan to the United States House of Representatives.

Father Ryan is the pastor of St. Brendan Roman Catholic Church in Ormond Beach, Florida, which is part of my district. He is a member of the presbyterate of the Diocese of Orlando and has served as a priest for 30 years.

Originally from New Jersey, Father Ryan has spent the majority of his priesthood ministering in the Orlando diocese.

Father Ryan has been a forerunner in the civic and ecumenical communities. In 2001, he gathered over 2,000 people of various faiths to mark the first anniversary of September 11.

In this service, he assembled Protestant, Jewish, Muslim, Catholic, and Orthodox religious leaders at his parish as well as representatives of every part of the civic community, from mayors, police chiefs, fire chiefs and every branch of the military service.

Father Ryan is no stranger to bringing together people of every race and every religion to share their common bond as members of the human society. He embodies the perfect blend of civic pride and religious faith.

Mr. Speaker, the Congress of the United States is privileged and honored today by the visit of a humble and great man, Father John J. Ryan of Ormond Beach, Florida.