History of the

National Day of Prayer

The first call to prayer came in 1775, when the Continental Congress asked the colonies to pray for wisdom in forming the nation.  In 1863, President Lincoln called for a day of “humiliation, fasting, and prayer.”

In 1952, a joint resolution of Congressand signed by President Truman declared an annual, national day of prayer. In 1988, the law was amended and signed by President Reagan, permanently setting the first Thursday of May as the national day of prayer. Each year, the President signs a proclamation, encouraging all Americans to pray on this day. Similarly, State Governors plus the Governors of the U.S. territories sign similar proclamations.

The theme of the 2010 National Day of Prayer is "Prayer for Such a Time as This" and is based on the verse from Nahum 1:7 which states: "The LORD is good, a refuge in times of trouble.  He cares for those who trust in him."

The following special prayer for the nation was written by Dr. Luis Palau for a prior year's event:

Our Father and our God,
We thank you for the many blessings you have poured out on America,
and we praise you for your mercy.

 

You have said, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people." We confess, O Lord, our national and personal sins. We repent and ask forgiveness for all actions that dishonor you.

 

O God, bless our President and other leaders. Provide them with wisdom and move them to honor you.

 

Deliver this great nation from all our enemies as we recommit ourselves to trust, serve and obey your commands.

 

We pray in your holy name,
Amen.

Please visit the National Day of Prayer Website to learn more about this event.