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The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance in the United States that encourages people across the nation to turn to God in prayer and meditation. It is held on the first Thursday of May each year.
The origins of a day of prayer date back to 1775 when the Continental Congress designated time for prayer in forming a new nation. Over the years, various leaders, including President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War, called for prayers. However, it was not until 1952 that the National Day of Prayer was established by an act of Congress, signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed an amended law solidifying its annual occurrence on the first Thursday of May.
On this day, people from different faiths are invited to pray for the nation and its leaders. The observances are as diverse as America's religious landscape:
Community Gatherings: Many towns and cities host community prayer events which may include large services, worship music performances, and communal prayers.
Church Services: Churches often hold special services dedicated to praying for government, military, media, schools, churches, families and other national institutions.
Government Participation: Presidents typically issue a proclamation each year; some government officials may attend or speak at local or national prayer events.
Personal Reflection: Individuals may spend time in personal prayer or meditation at home or with family.
The National Day of Prayer serves as a reminder for Americans to use prayer as a unifying force in the midst of their diverse religious beliefs and practices.