Lake County, FL, Commission Meeting
12 July 2022
James Bartel (196 words)

Thank you, Mr. chairman and commission members for the opportunity to offer an invocation this morning.

On behalf of all county residents, thanks to you, county employees, contract staff, and volunteers for the hard work and effort you bring to bear each and every day. 

Today, let us not be distracted by the many other things in our lives.  Let’s place them on pause for the morning and focus just on the task at hand–the business of the county. 

As we do so, we ask that all voices be heard with a focus on inclusivity. As Thomas Jefferson wrote “that government is the strongest, of which everyone feels themselves a part."

May we work towards the shared mission we have of making our community better each time we meet. 

Let today’s meeting reflect our shared values of trust, fellowship and ethics, and may we place Service above Self in our endeavors here today and each day to come.

May you deliberate with wisdom, insight, and impartiality.

And this morning, as we conduct the business of the County, may we take the time to lift everyone in the same way others have lifted us. 

Thank you.