Mayor Ken Tedford signs a proclamation for the National Day of Prayer, which will be recognized in Fallon on May 4. In the back row from left are Floyd Rathbun; Lynn Wallace Kinsell, Ph.D, Nevada State Regent, Daughters of the American Revolution; and John Tewell, retired councilman.
National Day of Prayer has been held annually nationwide for 66 years and as a noon event in Fallon for 21 years.
The Fallon program on Thursday includes music from 11:30 a.m. to noon followed by prayer and speakers until 1 p.m. at the at the Fallon Convention Center.
An important focus of prayers is for wisdom and strength in the community leaders and for faith, health, and prosperity for everyone in our community.
National Day of Prayer has its beginnings with the Continental Congress. John Hancock signed the Congressional order for a Day of Prayer in 1775. President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a day of “humiliation, fasting, and prayer” in 1863. In 1952 President Harry Truman signed a joint resolution of Congress that declared an annual, national day of prayer.
President Ronald Reagan in 1988 signed the law that permanently sets the day as the first Thursday of every May. Traditions include the Supreme Court and both houses of Congress beginning each day with prayer.
President George W. Bush in 2002 stated “Since our Nation’s founding, Americans have turned to prayer for inspiration, strength, and guidance. In times of trial, we ask God for wisdom, courage, direction, and comfort. We offer thanks for the countless blessings God has provided…”
At the local gathering we pray for wisdom and courage of our local officials and His blessings upon our community.