CONGRESSMAN JOE MORELLE WELCOMES RABBI PETER STEIN AS GUEST CHAPLAIN IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

April 30, 2026 (Washington, D.C.)—Today, Congressman Joe Morelle welcomed Temple B’rith Kodesh’s Senior Rabbi Peter W. Stein to Washington to serve as Guest Chaplain in the House of Representatives. Congressman Morelle delivered a speech from the House Floor as a part of Rabbi Stein’s welcome ceremony. His remarks, available below, will appear in the Congressional Record. 

“I rise today with gratitude for the opportunity to welcome Rabbi Peter Stein as our guest chaplain.

“One of the privileges of our role in Congress is to introduce spiritual leaders from across the country who reflect the depth and diversity of faith in America.

“This tradition is more than ceremonial. It is a living expression of one of our most fundamental freedoms—the freedom to worship, to lead, and to serve according to one’s faith. 

“Rabbi Stein embodies that calling.

“As the senior rabbi of Temple B’rith Kodesh, he has devoted decades to guiding his congregation with wisdom, compassion, and a deep commitment to justice.

“He has built bridges across faiths, worked to confront division and polarization, and reminded us that even in disagreement, there is a responsibility to listen, to learn, and to treat one another with dignity.

“Rabbi Stein, we are honored by your presence today, grateful for your leadership, and thankful for the example you set.

“May your words continue to guide us in the work ahead.”

Video footage of Rep. Morelle’s remarks and Rabbi Stein’s opening prayer can be found here.

To learn more about the House and Senate Chaplains, and the historical role of Guest Chaplains, please see this report from the Congressional Research Service.

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