Churches Prepare for National Day of Prayer

Story

Churches Prepare for National Day of Prayer

Special Report - April 18, 2008
Christians from around the nation will gather together at events throughout the country on May 1 for the National Day of Prayer (NDP). Held on the first Thursday of each May, the NDP seeks to bring about unity within the church and to protect Americans’ constitutional rights to assemble and practice religion. The NDP was signed into law by President Truman in 1952 and provides a nationally recognized day for Christians to assemble and pray for the nation.

In his official NDP proclamation last year, President George W. Bush commented, “A prayerful spirit has always been an important part of our national character, and it is a force that has guided the American people, given us strength, and sustained us in moments of joy and in times of challenge.” President Bush continues, “On this National Day of Prayer, we acknowledge God's grace and ask for His continued guidance in the life of our Nation.” President Bush is expected to release a similar proclamation next week recognizing May 1 as the NDP.

The NDP Task Force provides resources for churches or other groups that wish to plan a local event for the NDP. The theme for this year’s NDP is "Prayer! America's Strength and Shield.” Shirley Dobson, chairman of the NDP Task Force, commented, “We hope this powerful message will not only serve as a catalyst to draw God's people closer together as we intercede corporately on behalf of our country, but that it will encourage individuals to seek the Lord's guidance for their personal concerns as well.”