Cabot pastor Richard Hamlin leads prayer at legislative session's opening

In a spirited opening to the Arkansas Legislature's House Meeting on May 5, 2025, members gathered to honor the contributions of local faith leaders and recognize the importance of community support. Senior Pastor Richard Hamlin of Faith Baptist Church in Cabot led the assembly in prayer, setting a reflective tone for the session.

Pastor Hamlin's presence was acknowledged by the chair, who expressed gratitude for his encouragement and guidance throughout the legislative session. "His words often felt like what I call the word of the day," the chair remarked, highlighting the pastor's ability to resonate with the needs of the members. This appreciation underscores the role of spiritual leaders in fostering a supportive environment within the legislative body.

Following the prayer, the assembly moved to formalities, with members indicating their presence and requesting leave for various representatives. A total of 91 members were present, confirming a quorum for the day's proceedings.

The meeting also featured recognition of law enforcement personnel, with Corporal Trey Keller and Sergeant Greg Dicus from the highway patrol administration acknowledged for their service during the session.

As the meeting progressed, the chair directed attention to executive communications, signaling the start of discussions on legislative matters. This blend of community acknowledgment and formal legislative business reflects the ongoing commitment of Arkansas lawmakers to engage with both their constituents and the broader community.