CHESAPEAKE - When the session of the Ohio House of Representatives opens today in Columbus, a

familiar face will stand among the lawmakers and deliver the invocation.

Jack Finch, principal at Chesapeake Elementary School, was suggested for the privilege by State Rep. Clyde Evans.

"It is an honor," Finch said of the opportunity. "It is always a privilege to ask God for direction and care for our state. I'm a little nervous. I didn't think I would be nervous but I am."

Ryan Scribner, assistant to Evans said, lawmakers generally submit the names of clergy to pray at the opening of legislative sessions, and Evans and Finch have known each other for more than 20 years.

Evans said Finch is a good example a local person who used their talents to achieve excellence and professional success.

"Jack Finch is a person who came from a spiritually rich environment, but a materially humble one. But he had athletic talent and he used his opportunity. He went to the University of Rio Grande, was All-American in track, and he's been a success in all that he's done.

"I think the message I'd like to send to everyone, especially to his students, is that education can change your life. It's a message of what can be done if you use the opportunities you're given and jump on them and work hard. I think Mr. Finch is an example of this."

Chesapeake School Superintendent Sam Hall said he was pleased that Finch is getting this opportunity.

"God is an important part of his life and I think this is a positive thing for our school district and for our community," Hall said. "I think it speaks to the caliber of people we have working in our district."

Finch, who is an ordained Missionary Baptist minister, is also an adjunct professor at Tri-State Bible College in South Point.

The House session will open at 11 a.m. Evans is expected to introduce Finch, who will then pray. Scribner said that afterward there is usually a photo opportunity with house leaders, the selected clergy and the representative who suggested them.