U.S. churches mark
National Day of Prayer

Washington, Pennsylvania

The Washington Ministerium conducted a prayer service at 7 p.m., May 6, on the courthouse square.

"We have met with the county commissioners, Sheriff's Department and other government agencies over the past year and asked for their forgiveness for our lack of interest and our condemnations over the years," said pastor Tom Smith.

"We then asked for items of concern for which we could pray. They all responded favorably. We are in monthly and even weekly contact with several agencies."

One commissioner read a National Day of Prayer proclamation signed by all three commissioners. The group then shared songs of praise, and several people prayed for governments, communities, businesses, youths and seniors.

Gainesville, Florida

The Gainesville congregation participated in a National Day of Prayer rally at noon at the city center plaza.

The event was sponsored by the Gainesville Christian Ministers Association to call the community to an hour of prayer for the nation, leaders, community and family.

Pastor Ken Smylie was one of seven ministers who publically prayed at the occasion. About 200 attended, including several WCG members. Ken Smylie.

Wichita, Kansas

The Wichita, Kansas, congregation joined with Crestway Free Methodist Church and Faith Community Church in a prayer walk through one of the most troubled areas of Wichita.

They prayed for the children, parents, families and residents of the neighborhood.

After the prayer walk the three congregations met for food, fellowship and sharing.

Pasadena

The Pasadena A.M. Prayer Ministry conducted a National Day of Prayer service in the Fine Arts Recital Hall for Pasadena WCG congregations.

Curtis May, district superintendent, opened the service with prayer and a message on this year's theme, Lighthouses of Prayer.

He quoted 2 Chronicles 7:14 and Matthew 5:14, and encouraged those in attendance to be lights in the world and to pray for sick brethren. Rayminda Reyes, worship leader, led the congregation in song.

Several devotionals were presented, and after each devotional, groups of two to three people formed to pray about the preceding topic.

Pastor Bermie Dizon read 2 Timothy 2:1-4 and spoke on God's command for Christians to pray for our leaders. Steve Golden, director of Christian Business Leaders, expounded on the need to pray for our land and our cities, then led in prayer for the cities.

Leigh Sniffen, who assists Mr. May in the Office of Racial Reconciliation, spoke on praying for families and then prayed for the nation's families.

Mervin Walton, Prayer Ministry director, presented a message on Creating Lighthouses of Prayer, committing our homes to praying for our neighbors and for the lost that they may be brought to Christ. Mervin Walton, Prayer Ministry director.