January 18, 2025
ATLANTA — Each year, groups of Georgia Baptists are invited to join Mike Griffin, the public affairs representative for the Georgia Baptist Mission Board, for tours of the state Capitol building to pray for government leaders and enjoy the festive holiday decorations. Those who went on the Christmas Prayer tour Wednesday, Dec. 4, got a special treat as Gov. Brian Kemp and his wife Marty met with them. Griffin described it as "one of the best prayer tours ever!"
"We really appreciated the opportunity to meet and pray for Gov. Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp," Griffin said. "They are always such a blessing to be around and a blessing to the people of our great state.”
The tours, which are in their fifth year, provide insights into how state government operates, Griffin says. As the groups make their way through the Capitol, they stop at various places to pray for government leaders. Griffin believes that God can use those prayers “to make a difference in our lives,” and that is the driving force behind the annual tour. The chance to see beautiful Christmas displays is an added benefit.
On a Facebook post, attorney Glenn Cook wrote, "During the tour, we stopped at various locations throughout the Capitol to pray for God’s wisdom and leadership over those making critical decisions for the future of our state. It is a humbling reminder of the importance of seeking divine guidance in governance and ensuring our leaders have the strength and clarity to serve Georgia faithfully."
Lisa Kinnemore, a member of the GBMB's Public Affairs committee, said, “The Capitol Christmas Prayer Tour was wonderful. Mike Griffin did a great job informing everyone about the important jobs of the state leaders and why we must keep them in our prayers. Being able to personally pray for Governor and Mrs. Kemp was a blessing.”
Griffin takes visitors around the building, and while they enjoy the seasonal decorations they also see the spiritual needs of the elected officials and policymakers who work in the Capitol. Those on the tour also learn what goes on in the different parts of the Capitol, from the Governor’s Office to the legislative offices, committee rooms, and House and Senate chambers. The crash course in state-level political science allows people who take part to better understand the prayer needs.
“We had a total of 32 participants," Griffin said about the Wednesday tour, "including ten students and two professors (Barry McCarty and Sam Thomas) from Truett McConnell University. It was such an inspiring and encouraging experience to be around these folks. These citizens were so thankful for the opportunity to know more about the legislature, how to pray for our leaders, and how to be more involved in government."
Gary Leutzinger, who also serves on the Public Affairs committee, said, "This tour is very informative about how our legislature works and gives a better understanding of how we can pray for our government leaders as they make decisions for our State. I would encourage Pastors and church leaders to participate in this prayer tour."
Spaces are still available for tours on Dec. 17 and 18. Registration is required and those interested in participating can register by clicking on this link.
