PHOTO BY REBEKAH DELL / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
SPEAKING… Markie Repp speaks during the 75th annual observance of the National Day of Prayer Thursday at First Presbyterian Church. The event, hosted by the Montpelier Ministerial Association, drew approximately 50 attendees and featured prayers led by area clergy and church leaders.
By: Rebekah Dell
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
Community members gathered Thursday morning, May 7, at First Presbyterian Church in Montpelier for the 75th Annual observance of the National Day of Prayer, hosted by the Montpelier Ministerial Association.
Approximately 50 people attended the event, which began with a fellowship luncheon before transitioning into a morning prayer service centered around this year’s theme, “Glorify God Among the Nations, Seeking Him in all Generations.”
Guest speaker Markie Repp delivered a message focused on the historical influence of the Bible on the founding of the United States.
Repp discussed the role biblical teachings played in shaping the nation’s founding principles, noting that while not all of the country’s founders identified as Christian, many were influenced by scripture and its teachings.
Repp holds a bachelor’s degree in history and a master’s degree in American history and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in information science. She also works in the Archive Department at Hillsdale College.
The service concluded with prayers led by area clergy and church leaders focusing on several aspects of the community and nation.
Rev. Kevin Doseck of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church offered a prayer for the U.S. Armed Forces, while Pastor Mike Frisby of River of Life Worship Center prayed for families and marriages.
GayLynn Harris of House of Prayer led a prayer for schools, teachers and students, followed by Rev. Steve Beal of Ignite Ministries, who prayed for media, the internet, and newspapers.
Andrea Dawson of Sacred Heart Catholic Church offered prayers for police, firefighters, and EMTs, while Pastor Benaiah Harris of House of Prayer prayed for area businesses.
Attendees emphasized the importance of prayer and community during the annual gathering. “God should be the center of every nation.
He wants to be, but people need to choose Him because He is the God of all creation,” said Steve Kruse of Montpelier.
Julie Ayers also reflected on the significance of the event. “Prayer is the most important thing, and the opportunity for our members to come together in prayer is very important, so I won’t miss it if I can be here,” Ayers said.
The National Day of Prayer was established as an annual observance in 1952, when Congress passed a joint resolution calling for a national day of prayer. In 1988, legislation designated the observance to be held each year on the first Thursday in May.
Communities across the country continue to mark the occasion through local gatherings, prayer services and fellowship events. Thursday’s event in Montpelier continued a longstanding national tradition focused on prayer, unity and community reflection.
