National Day of Prayer service Thursday

Worshippers will gather at 11 a.m. Thursday on the steps of the Nevada State Capitol for the National Day of Prayer.

The prayer service brings together people from a broad spectrum of churches in unifying prayer, said Pat Propster, pastor of Calvary Chapel Carson City and president of the Carson City Ministerial Fellowship. He compared it to the harmony of music.

Five local pastors will lead in formal prayers with many others expected to participate. The Ministerial Fellowship sent invitations to 56 congregations in the area.

The theme for the 2013 National Day of Prayer is “In His name the nations will put their hope,” Matthew 12:21.

With the current polarization of political and social beliefs in the country, prayer is especially important, Propster said, noting the events at the Constitutional Convention.

In a deadlock, Ben Franklin addressed the delegates: “And if a sparrow cannot fall to the ground without his notice, is it probable that an empire can rise without his aid?”

Franklin went on to ask for “prayers imploring the assistance of Heaven, and its blessings on our deliberations ...”

“Prayer has always been a part of our nation,” Propster said.

The National Day of Prayer service, which starts an hour earlier than previous years due to the Nevada Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Service at noon, will begin with songs and a welcoming statement.

American Legion Post 56 will present the flag and 8-year-old Elyssa Robinson will lead in the Pledge of Allegiance.

Proclamations will be read from the offices of the mayor of Carson City, the governor Nevada, and the president of the United States.

After each proclamation, a pastor will lead in prayer for the needs expressed.

“It’s an important time for the unity of our faith, to seek the Lord on behalf of the great state of Nevada,” said Propster, who has participated in the National Day of Prayer in Carson City for 15 years.

“In prayer we have direct access to the throne of God.”