Rep. Pitts Delivers Republican Christmas Address
 
“To those wearing the uniform in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world at this hour, know that we are behind you and we join your loved ones in praying for your safe return home”
Washington–Delivering the Weekly Republican Address, Rep. Joe Pitts (PA-16) marks the Christmas season by paying tribute to the men and women of our Armed Forces, celebrating the gift of human life, and talking about the importance of humbly serving one another year-round.  Now in his seventh term representing the people of Pennsylvania’s 16th congressional district, Pitts is the incoming chairman of the Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health.  Audio of the address is available here.  Video will be available here for viewing and here for downloading once the embargo is lifted tomorrow morning at 6am.

Rep. Pitts’ statement follows:
 
“Hello, I’m Joe Pitts, and I have the great honor of serving the people of Pennsylvania’s Sixteenth Congressional District.
 
“As another year comes to a close, the American people rise to meet the challenges of our time with resolve and determination.  Before tackling the challenges that lie ahead, we join together to reflect on our blessings.
 
“Behind the splendor of the Christmas season lies a simple and inspiring story of how a single birth spread a message of love and salvation throughout the world – one that continues to resonate across this and other lands. 
 
“In this time of year when we gather to celebrate family and fellowship, we are reminded of the fulfillment that comes from humbly serving one another.
 
“We see the spirit of the season in the simple acts of kindness to aid families less fortunate.
 
“We see it in our servicemembers who raise their hands and volunteer for extraordinary tasks in the defense of freedom.  Many of these brave men and women are spending this holiday season far from our shores. 
 
“As a Vietnam veteran myself, I know the stress of being separated at this time of year.  To those wearing the uniform in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world at this hour, know that we are behind you and we join your loved ones in praying for your safe return home.
 
“To those standing watch closer to home – all the doctors, nurses, and emergency responders working around the clock, we thank you as well.  We don’t always realize how much these tireless individuals give of themselves to patients and their families.
 
“The story of Christmas also reminds us of the radiant glory of human life.
 
“Scriptures tell us, ‘In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind.  The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.’
 
“As we look ahead to the new year, let us resolve to do all that is within our power to share the light of life here and throughout the world. 
 
“Because when we affirm the joy and dignity of life, we affirm our commitment to freedom, and to those in dark corners who seek its protection.
 
“Let us resolve to keep our pledge to honor families, marriage, and the faith and values upon which this great nation was founded.
 
“And let us strive to listen to one another, to treat one another with dignity and respect, and to do our part to see that the promise of the American Dream is fully realized for our children and their children.
 
“May the peace and goodwill of this holiday season be with you and yours.  Thank you for listening.  Merry Christmas.”
 
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