Sen. Gruenhagen welcomes Hutchinson Pastor Randy Koppen as Minnesota Senate Guest Chaplain

State Senator Glenn Gruenhagen (R-Glencoe) recently welcomed a special guest chaplain from his district to the Minnesota Senate chamber.  

On April 30, Pastor Randy Koppen from Bethlehem United Methodist Church in Hutchinson had the honor of delivering the opening prayer before that day’s legislative session. 

“Pastor Koppen is a gifted spiritual leader, and I was delighted to have him bring his uplifting message to the Senate chamber,” Senator Gruenhagen said. “Pastor Koppen’s compassionate spirit was inspirational for my colleagues and me as we aim to faithfully serve our constituents. We’re lucky to have dedicated faith leader like Pastor Koppen providing us wisdom and guidance.” 

As guest chaplain, Pastor Koppen provided a few minutes of reflection and prayer to help set a tone of wisdom and unity as senators began their work for the day. His prayers focused on gratitude, guidance, and serving the greater good. 

The Minnesota Senate has a longstanding tradition of inviting guests to serve as chaplains and provide the opening prayer each day the legislature meets. 

TRANSCRIPT OF PASTOR KOPPEN’S PRAYER: 

“Let us pray. God of all, we thank you. Thank you for fashioning us as unique people. Every one of us here is gifted. Every one of us endowed with talents and skills. And you call us to utilize these gifts in unity.  

With our uniqueness comes differing perspectives. And we know deep within us that these differences can, and should, weave together, but too often unity eludes us. 

Forgive us, God, when we grow too sure of our own understandings that we fail to see different frameworks. Prompt us to see what you see in each one of us – a person who you cherish. And when things get sticky, give us the courage to believe the best in each person. 

As we gather together, I remind us that each person comes today with a deep commitment to improve the lives of all the citizens of Minnesota. Some elected by constituents. Some who have chosen to serve in staff roles. Some who share their time and wisdom as volunteers.  

Today we show up to bring about good governance. Let it be so.  

Amen.” 

VIDEO OF PASTOR KOPPEN’S PRAYER: 

 

PHOTO: Senator Gruenhagen and Pastor Koppen on the Senate floor.