Gov. Easley Declares "Day of Prayer"

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Special Report - May 1, 2008
Today, millions of men, women and children across the nation will gather in churches, offices and public parks to pray for America and its leaders during the 57^th annual National Day of Prayer (NDP). In honor of the event, Governor Mike Easley has issued an official proclamation recognizing May 1 as a “Day of Prayer” for North Carolinians. In it, he urges “citizens to gather together in their homes, places of work and places of worship to pray for the unity of the hearts of all mankind and to continue in prayer for our State and our Nation.”

President George W. Bush also issued a NDP proclamation in which he noted that, “America trusts in the abiding power of prayer and asks for the wisdom to discern God’s will in times of joy and of trial. As we observe this National Day of Prayer, we recognize our dependence on the Almighty, we thank Him for the many blessings He has bestowed upon us, and we put our country’s future in His hands.”

The NDP, which is held every year on the first Thursday of May, is a nationally recognized event that invites people of all faiths to pray for America’s “seven centers of power:” government, military, media, business, education, church, and family. The theme for this year’s NDP is “Prayer: America’s Strength and Shield,” and is based on Psalm 28:7, which states: “The Lord is my strength and shield; my heart trusts in Him and I am helped.” Renowned Christian apologist, Dr. Ravi Zacharias is the Honorary Chairman of the 2008 NDP. In his 2008 “Prayer for the Nation,” Dr. Zacharias states, “Holy Father, in a world where so many are hungry, You have given us food in abundance; In a world where so many are hurting, You offer to bind up our wounds; In a world where so many are lonely, You offer friendship to every heart; In a world longing for peace, You offer hope. Yet, we are so stubborn and resistant. Have mercy upon us, Lord. Our nation is at a crossroads this year; we look to you to be our strength and shield. Please give us the guidance to elect one who will honor you and to respond to the wisdom from above so that our hope may be renewed and our blessings be treasured. In God's holy name.”

NDP events are being held today in cities throughout North Carolina, from Apex to Yanceyville. For a list of events in North Carolina, visit the NDP web site.