Close to 2 1/2 years ago, Garry Welford asked me to serve the Sheriff's Department as their Chaplain! It was something I had done actively in previous years for other departments - and with members of my own family in law enforcement - I was thrilled to help out. The men and women I have served alongside in these last 2 1/2 years have been wonderful. They were so thoughtful to me when I encountered an unexpected heart surgery. They have been kind and gracious and I am continually grateful for my association with them.
When Sheriff Welford was tragically killed, I lost a dear friend! It was a sad but distinct honor to serve his family and the community as the chaplain of the department during those difficult days. I continued to serve for Mrs. Debbie Welford when she became acting Sheriff! She fulfilled a very difficult role and did so with great strength. Then Tony Keel was elected to serve the remaining portion of the the term and I was allowed to continue my service. I appreciate the friendship we have shared.
During the last half of this year, it has been impossible for me to effectively serve the department due to our church's increasing involvement in missions and ministry. We have been having success in getting more and more of our people involved in hands on ministry throughout the community. With the addition of these projects and my own first responsibility to my church, it has become clear to me that my time of service at the department has reached its conclusion.
There have been so many wonderful people that I have met through the Sheriff's office. I have met many people in the midst of tragedy. My prayers are still with them. The staff and deputies of the Sheriff's office are people whom I count as dear friends. They work in a thankless job with a million critics for low pay! I appreciate each and every one of them. Many thanks to each of them.
The new Sheriff, Dean Howell, will begin his service in January. Every person of faith in this county needs to support and pray for him each and every day. He will face opportunities, challenges, and tragedies that come with the territory of being Sheriff. Pray that God will grant him and those who serve with him wisdom, strength, and safety as they perform a dangerous job.
In the meantime, I shall always be thankful for this time that I was able to volunteer my services to the county. The blessing has been all mine!
God bless!
Tommy Mitchell
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