NORWICH – Yesterday, May 7, 2026, the center of Norwich found itself filled with community members who gathered to share in a moment of evangelical prayer and reflection.

The public event hosted by area Christian faith leaders from CVfree Church, Calvary Baptist Church, Berean Bible Church, and City Church Norwich, invited the public to take part in sharing of messages centered around 1 Chronicles 16:24 (NASB): “Tell of His glory among the nations, His wonderful deeds among all the peoples.”

According to nationaldayofprayer.org, The National Day of Prayer first began in 1952 when Public Law 82-324, Sec. 119 was passed by President Harry Truman, it read: “The President shall set aside and proclaim a suitable day each year, other than a Sunday, as a National Day of Prayer, on which the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals.”

Going forward to 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed Public Law 100-307 which set aside the First Thursday in May each year, as National Day of Prayer. 10 years later in 1998 President Bill Clinton signed into law Public Law 105-225 reaffirming that “The President shall issue each year a proclamation designating the first Thursday in May as a National Day of Prayer on which the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals.” According to nationaldayofprayer.org.

Following the law being signed, the sitting president of the United States has made a proclamation each year recognizing the National Day of Prayer, you can find them all at the National Day of Prayer website.

President of the National Day of Prayer Task Force, Kathy Branzell, wrote the 2026 National Prayer. In it, she thanks God for guiding America the past 250 years, and wishes for God's blessings in all aspects of life writing, “May Your Kingdom come, and Your will be done in our lives, our Families, the Church, Education, Business, Military, Government, Arts, Entertainment and Media as it is in heaven. We prayerfully commit to 'Glorify God Among the Nations, Seeking Him in All Generations.' In Jesus' name, Amen!”

You can find her complete prayer at https://www.nationaldayofprayer.org/2026-national-prayer

While everyone does not share the same beliefs, the Norwich gathering was open to individuals and families of all backgrounds. The public event was held at East Park. A sizable crowd attended and the prayers could be heard throughout the City, inside and outside. The faith leaders led prayers for the military, veterans, leaders, and families in Chenango County and elsewhere. The event was concluded with a reverend saying all he wishes for is that those present continue to pray for our town, county, and nation.