In this 2014th year of Our Lord, Thursday May 1 is proclaimed by our government to be “National Day of Prayer.”

The Continental Congress first officially designated a time for prayer in 1775.  National Day of Prayer is held on the first Thursday of May, as designated by the Congress of the United States when people are asked “to turn to God in prayer and meditation.” Since 1952, 36 U.S.C. § 119 states: The President shall issue each year a proclamation designating the first Thursday in May as a National Day of Prayer upon which “the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals.”

So together as one voice we solemnly pray the following petition to the Lord:

Almighty God, you have given us this good land as our heritage. Make us always remember your generosity and constantly do your will. Bless our land with honest industry, truthful education, and an honorable way of life. Save us from violence, discord and confusion; from pride and arrogance, and from every evil course of action. Make us who came from many nations with many different languages a united people. Defend our liberties and give those whom we have entrusted with the authority of government the spirit of wisdom, that there might be justice and peace in our land. When times are prosperous, let our hearts be thankful; and, in troubled times, do not let our trust in you fail. We ask all this through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.