Christians pray for nation at services
Tri-Cities Christians joined thousands nationwide in praying for the well-being of the United States during a National Day of Prayer observance Thursday in Geneva.
Under the theme of "Prayer! America's Strength and Shield," more than 30 people prayed for government leaders to acknowledge God as the supreme leader, and to make decisions that please him. They prayed for the safety of military personnel, for the media to act with integrity, and for people to be more compassionate and helpful to the downtrodden and brokenhearted, including the homeless.
"Amens" and "Thank you, Lord," were muttered throughout.
More Coverage Video Kane Co. Day of Prayer
"I pray as the Holy Spirit guides me," said Sonya Stebbins of Batavia, explaining why she spoke in tongues during some of the prayers.
"Thank you for Geneva, where many craftsmen and workers' dreams and visions have come to fruition," said the Rev. Karen Tews in her prayer for businesspeople, acknowledging that the economy is getting tough. "(We pray) that the competition (for business) won't be so great that their values go down the drain."
"We're going to do something a little different today. Gather around the flag. Grab ahold of our flag. Glory! Let our banner wave," said the Rev. Theresa Forkins-Phillips, leader of Praise Ministries church, at the conclusion.
Touching the flag or its pole, or a person who was, the crowd said the Lord's Prayer and sang "God Bless America."
The National Day of Prayer has been proclaimed annually by presidents since 1952. This year's proclamation asked all citizens "to give thanks, each according to his own faith, for the freedoms and blessings we have received and God's continued guidance, comfort and protection."
Thursday's event at the old Kane County Courthouse was affiliated with the National Day of Prayer Task Force, a private Christian organization led by Shirley Dobson, the wife of the founder of the Focus on the Family Christian organization. The national group's Web site, which bills itself as the National Day of Prayer Official Web Site, said it welcomes people of different faiths to attend, but requires event coordinators sign a statement of Christian belief and a "passionate devotion to advancing Christ's Kingdom."