National Day of Prayer ceremonies will be hosted locally by First Baptist of Gaffney
By JOE L. HUGHES II Ledger Staff Writer joe@gaffneyledger.com

While many worry about the country's economy and the upcoming election, some will be taking these issues to the Lord in prayer at Thursday's National Day of Prayer events at First Baptist Church of Gaffney.

This is the 57th year the day of prayer has been held nationwide. However, according to local organizers such as Buford Street United Methodist Church Pastor Rev. Scott Wachter, the 2008 edition is probably the most important.

"In the times we are in, there is a significance and a need for the nation to pray as a means to shield our country," he said. "There are a lot of things in the world that we as Americans are concerned about, but we know that our God can do miraculous things."

Cherokee County's National Day of Prayer festivities are annually sponsored by the Greater Gaffney Ministerial Association. The theme of this year's rally is "Prayer! America's Strength and Shield." The title is inspired by David's declaration in Psalm 28 where he says, "The Lord is my strength and shield, my heart trusts in him and I am helped."

"Prayer is the most important thing we can do," Midway Baptist Church Pastor Vernon Craig said. "There is a great need for the body of Christ to shine their light and pray for our country."

The 30-minute service covers all bases as area pastors pray for leaders on the local, state and national levels. They will also go to the Lord in prayer about the country's fight against terrorism both home and abroad as well as the upcoming elections.

Hymns and patriotic songs honoring America will be sung, along with public servants in the areas of education, law enforcement, churches and government being recognized.

"All areas are important and play a significant role," Wachter said. "We are praying that the Lord leads and guides their paths as they perform their duties."

Wachter said last year's prayer rally drew one of the larger crowds he has seen since he took a bigger role in organizing the event.

"We had a pretty large crowd last year, with a lot of people taking time out of their busy day to pray and fellowship with us," Wachter said. "This year, we are hoping for more of the same."

The National Day of Prayer rally will take place from noon until 12:30 p.m. For more information, call Wachter at 489-7183.