Youngstown pastor to offer opening prayer before U.S. House on Thursday

YOUNGSTOWN — The Rev. Kenneth L. Simon, pastor of New Bethel Baptist Church, describes himself as a “low-key person.”

But he’ll be in the national spotlight and on C-Span when he delivers the opening prayer before the U.S. House of Representatives at 10 a.m. Thursday.

Mr. Simon said U.S. Rep. Tim Ryan of Niles, D-17th, mentioned the idea to him and his father, the Rev. Lonnie A. Simon, pastor emeritus, about a year ago. The subject came up again earlier this year, and arrangements were made through Ryan’s office, Mr. Simon said.

Mr. Simon said though he was honored by Ryan’s request to have him deliver a prayer, he “didn’t want to make a fuss about it.” Then his congregation and deacons started spreading the news. He decided to share the information, not for himself, but another reason. “I thought this would also bring some recognition to the Valley and Ohio,” Mr. Simon said.

For the complete story, see Wednesday’s Vindicator and Vindy.com