Americans will celebrate a National Day of Prayer on Thursday 6th May. On this day, many people will participate in an observance that began more than a half-century ago. Millions of American citizens from state capitals, parks, schools, churches and even fire stations will pray for the nation and its leaders, families and children, and those fighting for its freedom.

"Prayer is an opportunity to praise God for His mighty works, His gift of freedom, His mercy, and His boundless love. Through prayer, we recognise the limits of earthly power and acknowledge the sovereignty of God. According to Scripture, "the Lord is near to all who call upon Him . . .He also will hear their cry, and save them." Prayer leads to humility and a grateful heart, and it turns our minds to the needs of others." said George W. Bush in the Presidential Proclamation.

This year's theme is "Let Freedom Ring." based on Leviticus 25:10, "Proclaim liberty throughout the land to all its inhabitants."

"This is for all members of our community," says Dr. Mark Hartman, Senior Pastor of Sugar Creek Baptist Church. "Everyone from our national and local leaders and our military, to mothers, fathers, business leaders and children in our own neighborhoods face difficult challenges everyday. We are living in a time of uncertainty, and our only hope for galvanising our country, our community and our families is through our faith. This is an important time when we all need to openly call on God for wisdom, direction, security and blessings."

The National Day of Prayer dates back to 1775, when the first Continental Congress called for the event. In 1952, Congress established National Prayer Day as an annual event that was signed into law by then-President Truman. President Reagan subsequently amended the law in 1988, designating the first Thursday in May as the National Day of Prayer. Today, the nationwide observance is spearheaded by a massive task force of more than 40,000 volunteers and coordinators organising events from coast to coast.

"National Day of Prayer has great significance for us as a nation," says Shirley Dobson, NDP Task Force Chairman. "It enables us to recall and to teach the way in which our founding fathers sought the wisdom of God when faced with critical decisions. Most importantly, it's a day that transcends differences - bringing together citizens from all backgrounds and walks of life."

The chaplain of the U.S. Senate, Dr. Barry Black, has written a "Prayer for the Nation" and is asking Day of Prayer participants across the nation to recite it at the same time. The prayer asks for a blessing of the military, the government, the churches, the media, the schools and the families of the United States.