Community members will united in faith at City Hall Thursday from noon - 2p.m.to unite in prayer in observance of National Day of Prayer.
Prayers will be guided by this year’s theme, Love One Another as described in John 13:34, “Love one another, just as I have loved you.”
The National Day of Prayer is observed annually the first Thursday of May. The event invites people of all faith to pray for the U.S.
It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman.
The National Day of Prayer Task Force is a privately funded organization, which was created to encourage participation on the National Day of Prayer.
According to the organization, the goals of the task force include: to communicate with every individual the need for personal repentance and prayer, to create appropriate materials, and to mobilize the Christian community to intercede for America’s leaders and its families.
The Task Force represents a Judeo-Christian expression of the national observance, based on the idea the U.S. “was birthed in prayer and in reverence for the God of the Bible.”
Greenville Mayor Errick Simmons said is excited about the event and hopes for a big turnout from the community.
According to a statement, the mayor’s office is humbled to observe the National Day of Prayer and looks forward to gathering as one community.
“If the only prayer you ever say in your life is ‘Thank You’ it will be enough,” Simmons said, noting Psalm 33:12, “Blessed is the nation whose God is Lord.”
“I encourage all to join our faith and religious leaders on the steps of City Hall on this day of prayer and worship,” Simmonsa said.
Faith-based leaders will lead participants in prayer focusing on serveral aspects of the community.
Pastor Anthony Prestage will lead prayer regarding leaders in the city, state and nation. Pastor Joseph Wright will be praying about spiritual leaders, the body of Christ.
Pastor Brandt Dick will be praying about families, marriages, parents and children. Dr. Lawrence Young will be praying about businesses, media, arts and music. Pastor T.D. Wicks will be praying about education.
Eighth Annual Prayer Luncheon:
The Eighth Annual Mayor’s Prayer Luncheon will be held at the Washington County Convention Center today at 11:30 a.m..
The keynote speaker will be Bishop James E. Swanson, pastor of The United Methodist Church in Jackson.
“He encourages all people regardless of racial identity and religious affiliation to join us for a time of prayer and fellowship,” Simmons said.
The event will feature entertainment from various schools and community volunteers. Tickets are $10 at the door.
