This Top Ten Best Communicator of 2005 remains on our best list so far this year. With his trademark wraparound glasses, Bono addressed the 52^nd Annual National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C. last Thursday. See it here.

In a room full of world leaders on both sides of political and religious divides, he created a communications experience that was inspiring, enlightening, and a very direct, effective call to action.

Though stationed behind a lectern and equipped with a formal written speech, he did an outstanding job of connecting. Behaviorally, his charm, humor, and passion for his cause far outweigh any communication idiosyncrasies – the um’s and uh’s, the repetitive stroking of his goatee.

He warmed up the crowd acknowledging the oddity of a rock star speaking at a prayer breakfast, stating he was not a man of the cloth, unless of course, “that cloth is leather.”

During the course of his 21-minute speech, he received four rounds of applause. Here’s how:

• Struck emotional chords by highlighting the unifying theme of poverty, quoting numerous scripture and teachings from Christianity, Judaism, and Islam.
• Lauded the progress and contributions of churches worldwide to AIDS, global health, and poverty, while presenting staggering statistics on the work to be done.
• Used an inspiring and personal story to introduce his point of view:

A number of years ago, I met a wise man who changed my life.

In countless ways, large and small, I was always seeking the Lord’s blessing. I was saying, “You know, I have a new song, look after it… I have a family, please look after them… I have this crazy idea…”

And this wise man said: “Stop. Stop asking God to bless what you’re doing. Get involved in what God is doing—because it’s already blessed.”

Well, God, as I said, is with the poor. That, I believe, is what God is doing.

And that is what He’s calling us to do.

Finally, he was textbook in his presentation of content:

• Point of View: “See the flow of effective foreign assistance as tithing” (perfect for the church-going crowd).
• Action Step: “Additional one percent of the federal budget tithed to the poor” (specific and measurable).
• Benefits: Listed several, but more importantly, he hit on what’s in it for both Africa and the U.S.

Impressive and influential speaking that has already changed, and will continue to change the world. We'll keep an eye on that additional one percent - estimated to be approximately $26 billion.