LEAWOOD, Kan. — Kansas senator-elect Adam Hamilton returned to church Sunday, addressing his congregation for the first time since winning election to the U.S. Senate.
Hamilton, the lead pastor of Church of the Resurrection in Leawood, thanked church members for their support throughout his campaign and reflected on how his role as a pastor shaped his experience on the campaign trail.
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“First of all, I want to say how proud I am of you as a congregation,” said Hamilton. “At almost every stop I campaigned at, I shared how much of a privilege I had of pastoring.”
Cathy Bien, a spokesperson for Church of the Resurrection, said Sunday’s service gave Hamilton an opportunity to personally thank members for their prayers and encouragement during the campaign.
Bien also pointed to the diversity of the congregation, which includes members across the political spectrum.
“It’s an opportunity for him to really thank our congregation for their support,” said Bien. “One of the things that’s very unique about Resurrection is we are made up of Republicans, Democrats and Independents.”
Hamilton’s election to the Senate will bring changes to his responsibilities at the church, although he plans to remain as senior pastor.
He said he plans to preach between 12 and 18 times a year as he shifts his primary focus to his new role in Washington.
“I’m going to be around, but I’m going to be around a lot less because my full-time job now will be with the United States Senate,” said Hamilton.
Hamilton also reflected on his motivation to run for office, pointing to concerns about divisions, injustice and a lack of kindness in the country.
“There were things that I felt just weren’t right in our country and places where there was injustice and unfairness, or a lack of kindness, even cruelty,” said Hamilton. “Just things that I thought, this is not who we are as Americans. This is not who I am. It’s not the gospel I’ve been preaching.”
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As he prepares to transition from pulpit to the Senate, Hamilton said he hopes to carry the same values that have guided his ministry into his work in public office.
