Local residents gathered on the north side of the Logan County Courthouse on Thursday in observance of the National Day of Prayer, joining millions across the nation in a time of collective reflection, prayer, and unity.
The event began promptly at noon, led by a combination praise team from Vineyard Christian Fellowship and Bellefontaine Grace Church.
The structured time of prayer commenced, with community leaders offering focused prayers for different sectors of society.
Kevin Greenwald, pastor of First Christian Church, opened the ceremony with a prayer, later returning to deliver the closing benediction.
Other participants included Robert Starnes of Gretna Brethren Church, who led prayers for individuals and the armed services; Eric Tanner of Trail Life USA, who prayed for families; Joe Antram, Logan County Commissioner, offering a prayer for the community; Ethan Bunce of Bellefontaine Grace Church, praying for schools; and Ben Vollrath, President of the Logan County Chamber of Commerce, who prayed for the nation.
Observed annually on the first Thursday of May, the National Day of Prayer was established in 1952 and serves as a call for people of all faiths to seek divine guidance and offer gratitude for the nation’s freedoms.
This year’s national theme, “Lift Up the Word – Light Up the World,” emphasized spiritual unity and the enduring power of collective faith.
Across the country, Americans participated in similar gatherings, both large and small, offering prayers for the well-being of individuals, families, communities, and the nation as a whole.
