A Deeper Look: Marion County

Circuit Rider, Salem, Oregon

And I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. Matthew 16:19.

 There are so many issues to pray about in Oregon in 2022. The governor’s race, the current legislative session that began February 1st, Covid, Portland, the economy, our children and on and on. It is sometimes difficult to know where to focus our prayers. My advice is to pray in the Spirit and ask the Lord to direct your prayers where He needs them most.

In this post we are looking at, if not a deeper look at least a review, of Marion County.

 Marion County is one of the oldest counties in the state, one of the original four large counties (Champooick) established by the first Provisional government. It is also the site of those first meetings that created the state in Champoeg in 1843.

 A rural and agricultural county in the center of the Willamette Valley known for its charm and for beautiful sites such as Silver Falls State Park, Marion is also the center of state government with Salem being both the county seat and the state capital. The capital was moved from Oregon City to Salem in 1851.

 The sculpture of the circuit rider that stands on the capital grounds in Salem was dedicated by Robert A. Booth, son of Robert Booth, a Methodist circuit rider who came as a pioneer to Oregon in the 1850’s and began a ministry in the Northwest that lasted forty years. The inscription reads, “Presented to the State of Oregon in reverent and grateful remembrance of Robert Booth, Pioneer Minister of the Oregon country.” Let’s pray for a return to our roots.

 The county is governed by a Board of Commissioners: Kevin Cameron, Danielle Bethell and Colm Willis. Additionally, the Chief Administrator is Jan Fritz. The County Sheriff is Joe Kast.

 The focus of prayer at this time is for the state capital and the current 81st legislative session that convened February 1st. This is a short session, ending March 8th.

How do we pray for Marion County?

Pray for the peace of [Salem]:“May they prosper who love you. Peace be within your walls, Prosperity within your palaces.” For the sake of my brethren and companions, I will now say, “Peace be within you.” Psalm 122: 6-8

 Bind any and all forces of evil off the capital building and the legislature. 

Pray and declare our state free of any agreement with evil or darkness; cancel any plan of the enemy to delude, ensnare or divide the people of Oregon. 

Cast down any plot to undermine or supplant God-given authority. 

Reject and annul any proud thing that exalts itself above the knowledge of God. 

Pray a hedge of protection around the capital building and that God will continue to bless and prosper Oregon while He exposes evil and corruption.

Pray for wisdom and discernment for the county commissioners, the sheriff and other leaders.

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