The first event for the 99th Second General Session began on Wednesday, January 3, with breakfast and a prayer service at Concord Baptist Church in Jefferson City. Prayers were offered for each branch of Missouri State Government. The charge to the General Assembly was given by Colonel Gary Gilmore of the Missouri National Guard who was just as inspired and inspiring as the other times I have heard him speak. It is encouraging to know Col. Gilmore is an influential leader and minister to the men and women of our National Guard.
Thursday’s activities began at 7:10 a.m., with the 2018 Governor’s Prayer Breakfast. The combination of scripture reading, music, prayer and speakers is organized to kick-off the new legislative year on the right foot. This year’s speaker was from Springfield – Pastor John Lindell of James River Church. The theme was Leading with Faith and Courage. It was an important reminder from the book of Nehemiah of the solemn duties of public service.
There was minimal floor activity this week as bills were formally read onto Senate calendars and await assignment to committees. Things will pick up next week once those assignments begin. There have been multiple meetings with the governor’s appointees to committees, boards and commissions. The prior administration left countless positions unfilled, and even though the governor’s staff is working to eliminate duplicate and unnecessary bureaucracy, many positions still need to be filled. The Gubernatorial Appointments Committee will be vetting and voting on interim appointments as quickly as possible.
Finally, one other event to help this year and this session start on the right foot. On January 17 there will be an event of the Missouri Senate Prayer Caucus. It is to be coordinated with other states across the nation that are entitled Keep Faith in America rallies. Most rallies will be held on January 16th and can be viewed live at Facebook/Keep Faith in America. A scheduling conflict has forced our event to be held on January 17. Our rally will be held in the Capitol Rotunda from 3 to 4 p.m. Please gather family and friends and join us in Jefferson City. In addition to hearing directly from legislators about the impact of prayer on their lives and service, you will enjoy special music and have an opportunity to sign the following proclamation:
Thank you for reading this legislative report. You can contact my office at (573) 751-2108 if you have any questions. Thank you and we welcome your prayers for the proper application of state government.