Several times a year, I have the opportunity to invite a member of the local clergy to deliver the official invocation to the Senate.

It is truly an honor to show the state of Michigan the outstanding religious leadership our region has to offer.

On Jan. 31, I welcomed the Rev. Chris Peddie of Lakeside Family Church in Stevensville to the Capitol for the invocation before Senate session.

During his invocation, Pastor Peddie expressed that God would remind us of St. Paul’s words that we should do nothing out of self-interest or selfish ambition, but rather — in humility — consider others more important than ourselves.

On May 10, I was proud to have the Rev. Robert Braman as my invocation guest. He is the former senior minister at First Congregational Church in St. Joseph.

Pastor Braman asked that God help give us courage when it is lacking and banish our fears when they hinder rather than motivate.

Both men encouraged us all to perform our duties in a manner that is good for the people of our great state.

I am thankful every day for the tremendous blessing and responsibility of serving the hardworking residents of southwest Michigan as we work to improve our state and make our communities better for future generations. One of the best ways to stay grounded in our endeavors is to listen to the good word from religious leaders.

I encourage residents to nominate members of the local clergy to deliver the Senate invocation.

If your church has a pastor, priest or minister who goes above and beyond their call of duty for the benefit of others, please nominate them to share their passion with the Senate.

Residents may nominate a local pastor, priest or minister by contacting my office at (517) 373-6960 or senjproos@senate.michigan.gov.

Sen. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, represents southwest Michigan.