National Day of Prayer

Tue, 05/02/2023 - 5:50pm — Diane Dyer

Butler County will observe the National Day of Prayer on the courthouse lawn on May 4 at noon. The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May, bringing together people of all faiths to pray for our nation.

It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman.

This year's theme is derived from James 5:16b, Pray Fervently in Righteousness and Avail Much: "The effective, fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much."

Historical Timeline of National Day of Prayer

1775

The First National Day of Prayer

The Continental Congress proclaimed that "a day of public humiliation, fasting, and prayer" be created.

1863

Day of Fasting and Prayer

During the Civil War, Lincoln signed a congressional resolution that made April 30 a day of fasting and prayer.

1952

National Day of Prayer

It was co-founded by Congress and signed into law by President Truman.

1988

National Day of Prayer is Designated