National Day of Prayer

History

The first Continental Congress called for a National Day of Prayer in 1775. This prayer was for the colonies to pray for guidance and wisdom in forming a new nation. In 1783 George Washington called for a day of public thanksgiving and prayer. James Madison declared a day of prayer 1813. President Abraham Lincoln issued a congressional resolution for a national day of fasting and prayer in 1863.

Congress signed a joint resolution that was ratified by President Truman in 1952 setting aside a yearly day of prayer for the country. President Ronald Reagan amended the Truman law in 1988 to declare the first Thursday in May to be set aside for the National Day of Prayer. This law states, "The President shall issue each year a proclamation designating the first Thursday in May as a National Day of Prayer on which the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals." He went on to proclaim "Prayer unites people. This common expression of reverence heals and brings us together as a Nation and we pray it may one day bring renewed respect for God to all the peoples of the world." Every president since Harry Truman has signed a proclamation each year for the National Day of Prayer. In addition to the president, most US state governors and mayors also proclaim an annual day of prayer.

Who Celebrates It?

All American citizens, regardless of their religious affiliation are called upon to observe the National Day of Prayer. They are encouraged to celebrate and pray in whatever manner they choose. In 2010 there were over 30,000 different observances organized for people to come together and pray for their country. It is set aside as a time to remember the founders who sought divine guidance in developing a new nation. It is also a time to pray for the not only the country, but for the current leaders of the country that they may be guided in their leadership.

How it is Observed

There is no right or wrong way to observe the National Day of Prayer. Many communities and organizations throughout the country hold different observances. They are held in churches, schools, public buildings, government buildings and parks. These observances range from sunrise services to sunset services and anytime in between. They are attended by a handful of people or up to thousands of people depending on the location. Millions of Americans attend these observances each year.

Controversy

In 2010, a US District Judge Barbara Crabb in Wisconsin ruled that the National Day of Prayer violates the ban on government-backed religion and stated that it served no secular function. Supporters of the National Day of Prayer claim since it goes back to the founding of the country the observance should be allowed. They also state that it is founded on the constitutional rights of freedom of speech and freedom of religion. The 1983 ruling that state legislatures can open their sessions with prayer is also part of the argument to keep the National Day of Prayer. It remains to be seen in the upcoming years whether or not the tradition of a National Day of Prayer in America will continue on.