LIHU‘E — What are you praying for?
A win in the big game coming up. The end of conflict in the Ukraine. The end of the threat of the novel coronavirus. Peace and understanding.
The power of prayer has been recognized internationally. Congress designated the National Day of Prayer to be observed annually on the first Thursday of May, when people of many different faiths join in prayer.
Annaleigh Atkinson of the Interfaith Roundtable of Kaua‘i is inviting all people of all faiths to gather in peace and joy to pray for the island, nation, world, and all beings, during the Kaua‘i participation in the National Day of Prayer.
Faithful and faith leaders representing at least 12 different faiths will gather from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the rotunda of the Lihu‘e Civic Center’s Mo‘ikeha Building to pray for peace, a subject specifically requested by Mayor Derek Kawakami, Atkinson said.
Luis Padilla will play a soothing crystal bowl prelude starting at 11:15 a.m.
“We invite all to come gather with us in peace and joy,” Atkinson said. “It will be wonderful to lift our voices in prayer, together again.”
In 1952, President Harry S. Truman proclaimed a National Day of Prayer to be observed on July 4, 1952. Each year following that date, Americans have observed the day in their own way.
The move of National Day of Prayer to the first Thursday in May was done by President Ronald Reagan.
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Dennis Fujimoto, staff writer and photographer, can be reached at 245-0453 or dfujimoto@thegardenisland.com.
