President Carter at the Statehouse

On February 3, 2026, President Jeff Carter offered an invocation at the beginning a session of the Indiana State House of Representatives. He was appeared at the invitation of Representative Brad Barrett. Dr. Barrett represents District 56, which includes Richmond.

Dr. Carter regularly interacts with elected officials from both sides of the aisles. He as regularly conducted interviews with Indiana political figures at events hosted by the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce, including Governor Mike Braun and former Governor Eric Holcomb. While serving as a pastor in the Washington D.C. metro area, he was nominated to serve as Guest Chaplain of the United States Senate by Senator James Webb.

“I was honored and humbled to have the opportunity to offer an invocation at the opening of this session of the Indiana House,” says President Carter. “At Bethany, we have made community engagement in all its forms at institutional priority, because we believe we are called to promote the flourishing of all our neighbors and neighborhoods.”

Dr. Carter’s invocation for the Indiana House read as follows:

OPENING INVOCATION

INDIANA HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Tuesday, February 3, 2026

Rev. Dr. Jeffrey W. Carter

Will you pray with me…

Almighty and gracious God, we give thanks for this new day and both the responsibilities and opportunities it brings.

With all that surrounds us and calls for our attention, we pause to focus our minds and hearts on the significance of this moment and the work before us.

From our urban centers to our rural landscapes, from growing suburbs to aspiring cities, the challenges we face are many. Through inspired labor, enlightened curiosity, and a commitment to service, beyond all that might divide us, the promise of unity, health, and wholeness resides. Remind us, by your grace, that we live in a state of promise and realized hope.

Grant this body knowledge, wisdom and discernment as they seek to govern with justice, humility, and care. Strengthen them with courage to meet the demands of our time, mindful that they serve both our democracy and its people. Embolden them to do what is right, noble, and true for all who call Indiana home and rely on our vitality.

May their decisions today and the manner of their governance reflect your enduring call to uphold human dignity, protect freedom, and pursue the well-being of all. For true purpose is found in service beyond ourselves.

We ask your grace upon this House—its members, their staff, those who support the work of this chamber, and their families. For we know the mantle of authority can be heavy for those who serve and the circle that surrounds them. May your grace be known and may we honor the enduring principles of justice, liberty, and the common good to the flourishing of all who call Indiana home.

AMEN

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