Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in the House today as the chair of the 60th annual National Prayer Breakfast. This is truly a historic event that takes place on the Hill each year, where we gather in the spirit of Christ and pray for our country. This non-partisan Christian event is the highlight for many of us, and I am pleased to say that we had a record attendance.
This year's theme is that we are not alone, for we are assured that God is with us and that we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, as is stated in scripture. It is a message that calls us to remember those who came before us, the enduring role of faith and the role it has played in shaping Canada's history, institutions and sense of service.
I offer a special thanks to my colleagues, as well as our staff, the volunteers and all the attendees who are praying with us either in person or from across the country. This event would not be possible without them.
We pray that Canada will continue to be the true north, strong and free. As our beloved national anthem declares, may God continue to “keep our land glorious and free”.