In the year 1775, the Continental Congress allocated a time for prayer in forming a new nation. Over the years, there have been calls for a day of prayer, including from President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. On April 17, 1952, President Harry Truman signed a bill proclaiming the National Day of Prayer into law in the United States. President Reagan amended the law in 1988, designating the first Thursday of May each year as the National Day of Prayer.
The theme for the 2020 National Day of Prayer is “Pray God’s Glory Across the Earth.” The theme is derived from the scripture in Habakkuk 2:14: “For the earth will be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord as the waters cover the sea.”
In observance of National Day of Prayer, there will be a gathering at the Wayne County Courthouse in Waynesboro near the flagpole at 12:00 noon on Thursday. Prayers, devotionals, and singing will be broadcast on WWON 930 AM, led by local pastors and officials. Waynesboro Police Chief Walter Smith will lead the prayer for our government, and Wayne County Director of Schools Marlon Davis will lead the prayer for education. Many others will be involved in leading prayer and singing. Everyone who wishes to attend in person is encouraged to practice social distancing by remaining inside your vehicle or standing outside near your vehicle. Those at home may participate by listening to WWON 930 AM for the event.
The City of Collinwood will observe National Day of Prayer on Thursday at 6:00 p.m. in the parking lot behind the Welcome Center. Everyone who wishes to attend is encouraged to come together for prayer for peace, unity, and good health, while also practicing social distancing for everyone’s safety and remaining at least six feet apart.
Law states that “The President shall issue each year a proclamation designating the first Thursday in May as a National Day of Prayer on which the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals.” President Donald Trump issued a proclamation this year, and spoke of the ways the coronavirus pandemic has affected so many aspects of our lives, including the National Day of Prayer. President Trump’s proclamation reads, in part:
“In our times of greatest need, Americans have always turned to prayer to help guide us through trials and periods of uncertainty. As we continue to face the unique challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic, millions of Americans are unable to gather in their churches, temples, synagogues, mosques, and other houses of worship. But in this time we must not cease asking God for added wisdom, comfort, and strength, and we must especially pray for those who have suffered harm or who have lost loved ones. I ask you to join me in a day of prayer for all people who have been affected by the coronavirus pandemic and to pray for God’s healing hand to be placed on the people of our Nation.
“As your President, I ask you to pray for the health and well-being of your fellow Americans and to remember that no problem is too big for God to handle. We should all take to heart the holy words found in 1 Peter 5:7: “Casting all your care upon him, for he careth for you.” Let us pray that all those affected by the virus will feel the presence of our Lord’s protection and love during this time. With God’s help, we will overcome this threat.
…”As we unite in prayer, we are reminded that there is no burden too heavy for God to lift or for this country to bear with His help. Luke 1:37 promises that “For with God nothing shall be impossible,” and those words are just as true today as they have ever been. As one Nation under God, we are greater than the hardships we face, and through prayer and acts of compassion and love, we will rise to this challenge and emerge stronger and more united than ever before. May God bless each of you, and may God bless the United States of America.”
