May I, in conclusion, repeat that I am honored to be present at the
opening of this conference. Let us pray fervently that the Almighty
will shower his blessings upon these deliberations and upon all those
who participate in them.

ADDRESS, ANNUAL MARYLAND CHURCHMEN'S
LEGISLATIVE SEMINAR

ANNAPOLIS
February 9, 1966

It is indeed a pleasure for me to again address the Maryland Church-
men's Legislative Seminar. As the Reverend Mr. Bunce, your excellent
chairman, indicated in his letter of invitation to me, the Legislative
Seminar has known no other Governor than myself. This streak will be
broken next year because, as I am certain you all know, this is my
last year of eight years as your Governor.

Not long ago, I happened to be leafing through a sheaf of papers
listing many of my past speaking engagements and, frankly, I was quite
pleased to note that I speak far more frequently to religious groups
than to any other. This served to remind me that, even though I have
been active in the public affairs of Maryland for more than three decades
and even though I have thoroughly enjoyed participating in the great
game of politics for longer than I care to remember, my interest in the
activities of my church has not, in the least, diminished. As a matter of
fact, the reverse is true, for when I assumed the burden of high public
office, my need for spiritual guidance and inspiration greatly increased.

Decision is inherent to the office of chief executive. I know of few
men who don't, after all advisors have offered their opinions, turn
within themselves and seek guidance from God in such times. The de-
cision may affect only one life or perhaps the lives of many, but in
either case the burden is tremendous. It is at such times that spiritual

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