Public is welcome at prayer services

The public is urged to attend the county's observance of the National Day of Prayer.

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Thursday's event will begin with a breakfast reception at 7:30 in the atrium of the Columbia County Library in Evans, followed with the prayer service at 8 a.m. in the Jabez Sanford Hardin Performing Arts Center.

The Rev. Roger Vest, the pastor of Harlem United Methodist Church, said the event will include musical performances by many area churches, including Gospel Water Branch Baptist Church and Mosaic United Methodist Church.

"It's a gathering of the body of Christ to pray for our country and government, both federal and local," said Vest, a member of the organizing committee. He said the public is invited to submit prayer requests for the good of Columbia County, the state and nation.

The purpose of the National Day of Prayer is to unify Christian churches, protect religious freedom, encourage open prayer, promote respect for individuals and stewardship of resources and to glorify God, according to the National Day of Prayer Task Force, a group committed to promoting the day and public prayer.

President Truman was the first to sign a resolution calling for an annual day of prayer, and in 1988 President Reagan set the first Thursday in May as the National Day of Prayer.

The National Day of Prayer traces its roots to Colonial times, when the Continental Congress called on the people to pray for guidance in crafting a new nation, according to The National Day of Prayer Task Force.

During the Civil War, President Lincoln also called for a day of prayer for the country in 1863, according to the group.

This year's event will be preceded by fellowship and refreshments in the library lobby, beginning at 7:30 a.m.

If You Go

What: National Day of Prayer

When: 8 a.m. Thursday, reception at 7:30 a.m.

Where: Jabez Sanford Hardin Performing Arts Center at the Columbia County Library

For more information: Call (706) 556-6885.