Faith

‘When God Opens a Door, Walk Through It’: Skepple Opens U.S. House With Prayer, Carries USVI Concerns to Speaker Johnson

ST. CROIX — Pastor Dexter Skepple of Speak the Word Ministries in Frederiksted served as guest chaplain of the U.S. House of Representatives on September 17, delivering the chamber’s opening prayer after being invited by Delegate Stacey Plaskett. The House Office of the Chaplain formally lists Mr. Skepple as that day’s guest chaplain, sponsored by Ms. Plaskett. Mr. Skepple described the opportunity as one of the greatest honors of his life, but said he did not view the trip as a personal achievement alone. “This was not simply a personal opportunity. I went to Washington carrying St. Croix and the entire U.S. Virgin Islands in my heart. I was deeply humbled to represent the people and communities that have shaped my life and ministry.” Before the House proceedings, Mr. Skepple met Rev. Dr. Margaret Grun Kibben, chaplain of the House, as well as House Speaker Mike Johnson. According to Mr. Skepple, his conversation with Mr. Johnson included discussion about the Virgin Islands and cha...