There is no doubt that our country is facing many serious
problems today: American soldiers dying in Afghanistan and Iraq,
homelessness, drug abuse, high unemployment, schools, cities,
counties facing painful budget cuts
– the list could continue.
There is no doubt that our country is facing many serious problems today: American soldiers dying in Afghanistan and Iraq, homelessness, drug abuse, high unemployment, schools, cities, counties facing painful budget cuts – the list could continue.
For those who put trust in God to see us through these challenges, a special event is being held in Morgan Hill, a National Day of Prayer Breakfast on Thursday, May 5, from 7 to 9am. Christians from many traditions will gather at the Crossroads Christian Center Gym, 145 Wright Ave., for an inspiring morning.
At least a dozen local churches have been involved in planning this event, which is open to the whole community. The welcoming address will be given by the Rev. Eric Smith of South Valley Community Church. Among other speakers scheduled are the following pastors: Sammy Vazquez, Crossroads Christian Center; Edd Breedon, San Martin Presbyterian Church; Mark Inouye, Morgan Hill Presbyterian Church; David Whitaker, Morgan Hill Bible Church; and Malcolm McPhail, New Hope Community Church.
In addition to the continental breakfast, the morning will feature music led by worship teams from Family of Christ Church, Gilroy, and Abundant Life Church, Hollister. Clergy and lay leaders will guide those in attendance through prayers for their families, communities, nation and the international community.
Wanda Puder, Coordinator of the South County National Day of Prayer, invites all residents to attend, saying: “This is the one event of the year that Bible-believing Christians can gather together to worship and pray together for our nation.”
President George W. Bush and all 50 governors have proclaimed May 5 the 54th annual National Day of Prayer. An estimated 40,000 coordinators and volunteers will host similar events at courthouses, state capitals, city halls, and other locations across the country. This year’s theme is “God Shed His Grace on Thee.”
The idea of a National Day of Prayer predates the nation itself because the Continental Congress set aside a day of prayer in 1775. In 1863 President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a day of “prayer, fasting, and humiliation.” President Harry Truman signed a resolution passed by Congress in 1952 that initiated the modern observance.
In 1988 President Ronald Reagan designated the first Thursday in May as the official National Day of Prayer. Now, each year the President signs a proclamation asking people in the nation to come together to pray for our country.
Recently Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has proclaimed, “Californians of every religious denomination gather in prayer, an act shared by all religions. Prayer enables us to rejoice in our liberties and give thanks for the abundance we have enjoyed throughout our history. We pray to acknowledge our cherished independence and express our overwhelming gratitude for those who sacrificed all to share – and protect – our democracy.
This year advanced tickets are not required to attend; a donation may be made at the door.
