National Day of Prayer event Thursday

In Sandpoint and in tens of thousands of other communities, prayer events are planned across the country on Thursday, May 5, in honor of the 71st annual National Day of Prayer.

In churches, parks and on the courthouse steps, citizens will be praying for the nation, government leaders, media, military, schools, churches, business, and families, organizers of Pray 7B, the group hosting the local celebration.

Many Sandpoint area churches are participating in the National Day of Prayer and the community-wide event will begin at 11:30 a.m. with music from a multi-church band. The National Day of Prayer observance will begin at noon in Farmin Park. This will include an introduction by area pastors, music, the Armed Forces Color Guard, and prayer for the city, state, and nation.

"It is a great time of unity among the churches," Janine Shepard, one of the organizers, said. "We will also be live that day on Facebook, so those who are unable to come to the park can join us."

Shepard said the group is continuing its program called Adopt-a-Cop, where Pray 7B will ask residents to Adopt-a-Cop and pray for them regularly.

"We want to show our extreme gratitude to our law enforcement for the work they do to keep us safe every day," she said. "If you are in law enforcement or know anyone who is, please invite them to this event so we can pray and bless them. There will be an opportunity to sign up to pray for them at the event."

At this crucial time for the nation, Pray 7B officials said there is nothing more important than prayer.

"Thank you in advance for making this spiritual discipline a personal priority and for standing with us as we encourage others to incorporate prayer in their lives," Shepard said. "The Lord has graciously anointed our efforts, empowering them to touch and change many hearts and lives. We look forward to seeing His hand move across our land in exciting ways each May in response to our petitions."

All in the community are invited to attend the local Day of Prayer — and join with millions of believers across the nation on Thursday, May 5. This year’s theme “Exalt the Lord Who has Established us” from Colossians 2:6-7.

Congress established the National Day of Prayer in 1952. This observance is currently held the first Thursday each May when all Americans are encouraged to exercise their religious freedom by gathering publicly to worship and pray for the country.

Information: Pray7B.org