A special moment took place recently at the Illinois State Capitol, as six-year-old Marshall DeGroot of Morrisonville had the opportunity to deliver the opening prayer before members of the Illinois House of Representatives.
The young DeGroot, a kindergartner from Morrisonville, was welcomed to the House floor by Illinois State Representative Wayne Rosenthal. Marshall is the son of former Illinois Representative Avery Bourne and Aaron DeGroot.
According to Representative Rosenthal, DeGroot may now hold a unique distinction in Illinois history. Rosenthal said they believe DeGroot is the youngest guest on record to ever deliver the opening invocation in the Illinois House of Representatives during its 208-year history.
The young student confidently stepped up to the podium and began by greeting those closest to him. DeGroot first said hello to his classmates, friends, and family members who were listening and watching from home and at school. He then led lawmakers in a heartfelt prayer.
DeGroot prayed, “Dear God, thank you for this day. Thank you, God, for this country and our state. Today, I pray that you protect our leaders. Please help everyone here do good work and let everybody have a great day. Amen.”
Representative Rosenthal praised DeGroot following the prayer, calling his words simple but powerful. Rosenthal said everyone could learn from DeGroot’s message, especially during a time when cooperation and positive leadership are needed across the state and nation.
The occasion was also made extra special because DeGroot’s classmates at Morrisonville Elementary School were able to watch the prayer live online with the help of modern technology. Students and teachers reportedly tuned in from their classrooms to support their classmate as he addressed state lawmakers in Springfield.
The experience not only highlighted the importance of civic engagement at a young age but also gave one small-town Illinois student a chance to make history in front of state leaders.
For DeGroot and his family, it was a day they likely will never forget, and for lawmakers inside the Illinois House chamber, it served as a reminder that even the youngest voices can deliver meaningful messages.
For information on the Illinois House of Representatives, visit www.illinois.gov
Pictured below is 6-year-old Marshal DeGroot Shaking hands with Senator Rosenthal.
