Staff Writer

Gathering for the "One Nation Under God" prayer breakfast had a little more meaning this year.

The Exchange Club of Troy continues a tradition that began in 1964 when the national organization chose to show pride in country and community, as well as appreciation through the "One Nation Under God" program. The speaker chosen for the 6:30 a.m. event held Tuesday is someone who epitomizes those values, said Exchange club member Robert Earl Stewart, who introduced State Treasurer Lucy Baxley.

"Our speaker leads, in her everyday life, the teachings of the church" while serving her state, Stewart said.

"It really touches me that you would think of me at this time for an event like this," Baxley said, referring to Thanksgiving and the nation’s strife. "I commend you, as a community, for getting together like this."

She said it’s important "we never lose sight of our relationship with God."

The state treasurer, who has an open-door policy because "everything I do is the people’s business" said state government should be run with compassion.

Pointing out the pledge of allegiance states we are "one nation under God, indivisible" and that should remind citizens to recognize "the One who is first" and that togetherness is important.

"We need to continually seek God’s blessings," Baxley said. "A good life does not mean everything is good. We should enjoy the life God intended for us."

Baxley talked about "the very foundation of our security" being shaken with the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11 and how the nation has come together and "turned to what they could believe in ­ prayer.

"It brought, to our hearts and minds, patriotism…our young people had never known," she said, adding her hopes that devastation makes Americans stronger and look at priorities.

"Let us all go out of here knowing God has shown us he is still there. I wish you would come to know God loves you."