The National Day of Prayer is an annually observed day across the nation that gives religious and political leaders a chance to reflect on the community, pray for its direction, and offer guidance.
The day originated in 1952, when President Harry S. Truman signed a resolution that established the day of prayer, but the day was not recognized annually until 1988 under President Ronald Reagan, who set the annual observance on the first Thursday in May.
Since then, the day has been marked by an official proclamation from the current president, as well as public service held at the United States Capitol in Washington D.C.
This year, there was no public service at the capitol, as it is closed to the public amid the COVID-19 pandemic, but President Joe Biden still issued a traditional proclamation and took part in a virtual prayer event.
While no public service took place at the federal level, several communities across the nation held their own ceremonies – once such community being Gadsden County.
On May 6, members of the Gadsden’s religious community and the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office gathered on the Gadsden County Courthouse lawn to pray over current political, social, and community issues.
During the brief prayer ceremony, Sheriff’s Office Chaplain and local Reverend Jimmy Salters prayed for local politicians, the COVID-19 issues in India, Gadsden County students, and the growth of the community.
Other prayers were made by Betty Dobson, Pastor Doug Stevens, and Sandra Irving, who all prayed for the wellbeing of the county through Gadsden County’s people, elected officials, leaders, and youth.
Ashley Hunter – editor@gadsdencountynews.net
Photos By Ashley Hunter
