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 challenges confronting the territory. He said the Speaker asked how Washington could be helpful, requested his business card and expressed interest in speaking with him again. Mr. Johnson currently serves as Speaker of the House.
In his opening prayer, Mr. Skepple prayed for the nation, members of Congress and other government leaders, asking for wisdom, guidance and protection for leaders, families and communities. The prayer is preserved by the House Office of the Chaplain as part of its official guest-chaplain record.
Mr. Skepple said standing in the House chamber prompted him to reflect on his journey, his family, his church, his community and St. Croix. “I prayed for our nation. I prayed for our leaders. I prayed for wisdom, guidance, unity and God’s hand upon the decisions being made that affect millions of people.”
Ms. Plaskett also recognized Mr. Skepple in the Congressional Record, highlighting more than 25 years of ministry in the Virgin Islands and his work mentoring young men, counseling families and serving the community. Her remarks described his appearance in the House as a point of distinction for the territory.
Following the prayer, Mr. Skepple received a tour of the U.S. Capitol and spent time overlooking the National Mall toward the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial. He said the experience prompted reflection on generations of Americans who had passed through the nation’s capital, including those who prayed, fought for freedom and sought to improve the country.
Mr. Skepple credited Ms. Plaskett and her team with making the visit possible and said he returned home with a deeper appreciation for faith, service and leadership. The experience, he said, reinforced a message he has long preached: “Never limit what God can do with your life. When God opens a door, walk through it with humility, gratitude and faith.”
“I went to Washington representing the U.S. Virgin Islands, but above everything else, I went as a servant of God with one assignment: to pray.”
