The first Thursday in May each year is celebrated as the National Day of Prayer in the United States. The day is set aside for people from all faiths to pray for the country as a whole.

 

The day dates back to 1775 with the first call to prayer that happened when the Continental Congress called for prayers for the forming nation. But the day wasn’t made official until 1952, when President Truman signed a Congressional proclomation declaring a national day of prayer.

 

In 1988, President Reagan amended the law to make it officially the first Thursday in May each year. Traditionally the president releases a proclamation for the day, as do some other elected officials.

 

This year the proclamation from President Donald J. Trump said, “Today, on this National Day of Prayer, we once again come together to give thanks to Almighty God for the bountiful blessings He has bestowed on our great Nation and to ask for His unfailing counsel.  We also acknowledge our dependence on God’s love to guide our families, communities, and our country away from harm and toward abundance and peace.”

 

Locals gathered all around the area to participate including dozens who showed up at Becker City Hall Thursday in the Rotnda. Attendees were invited inside afterwards to enjoy a potluck meal.

 

The National Day of Prayer is meant to encourage people to pray for the nation. The theme this year is “Love One Another.”