What is the 2008 theme for the National Day of Prayer (NDP) ?

Prayer! America's Strength and Shield from Psalm 28:7: "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in Him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song."

When did the NDP begin?

Days of prayer have been called for since 1775, when the Continental Congress designated a time for prayer in forming a new nation. In 1863, Abraham Lincoln called for such a day. Officially, the NDP was established as an annual event by an act of Congress in 1952 and was signed into law by President Truman. President Reagan amended the law in 1988, designating the first Thursday of May each year as the NDP.

What is the NDP Task Force and what is its purpose?

The NDP Task Force concentrates on the need to pray for the well-being of America and for those in leadership on all levels of national, church and educational areas of influence. The Chairman is Mrs. Shirley Dobson, who has held the position since 1991. Mrs. Dobson volunteers her time and does not receive a salary. The NDP Task Force consists of a full-time staff and a network of thousands of grassroots volunteers nationwide. Prior to Mrs. Dobson's involvement, the Task Force was led by Mrs. Vonette Bright, wife of former Campus Crusade for Christ president and founder Bill Bright.

Is the NDP exclusively a Christian event?

No. This government-proclaimed day is offered to all Americans, regardless of religion, to celebrate their faith through prayer. However, the efforts of the NDP Task Force are executed specifically in accordance with its Judeo-Christian beliefs.

Is the NDP a political event?

No. The National Day of Prayer, as designated by our government, belongs to all Americans. It is not sponsored or owned by any one group. Every American can observe the NDP in his or her own way. Each year, the President issues a proclamation in support of this significant day.

What kinds of events are planned?

The most visible gathering has been held historically at our nation's Capitol in Washington, D. C. on the first Thursday of May. The executive, legislative and judicial branches of government are represented, as well as the military. In addition, Christian leaders address the current year's theme and other areas of interest. In 2007, approximately 40,000 events were held nationwide.

What are the Seven Centers of Power?

The Task Force is encouraging groups to take seven minutes to pray for the Seven Centers of Power (pray one minute each for these 7 centers of influence: government, military, media, business, education, church and family). Pray for renewal in our hearts and repentance to come to America.

Middle Georgia NDP Events

April 30 – May 1

24-Hour Prayer Vigil from 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 30, to 8 p.m. Thursday, May 1. Northside Christian Church, 5024 Northside Drive, Macon. Call to schedule a watch-time, or just come and pray. 478-477- 6539.

May 1

National Day of Prayer Breakfast. 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Tickets $5 per person. Doors open at 7:15 a.m. First Presbyterian Church, 653 Mulberry Street, Macon. Call for reservations and/or tickets, please. Walk-ins welcomed, too. 478-746-3223.

National Day of Prayer Luncheon. 11:45 a.m. Rev. Tim Millwood will speak, and lunch is provided at no cost. The public is invited to join us n our Fellowship Hall of First Baptist Church, 1135 Watson Blvd. , Warner Robins. Please call First Baptist Church office at (478) 922-8152 for reservations by April 29, 2008. Come pray with us!

National Day of Prayer Noon Observance. Noon Prayer on the front steps of Macon City Hall, 700 Poplar St. , Macon. All are welcome to come and pray. Email maconndp@gmail.com.

National Day of Prayer Service. Noon at Warner Robins City Hall Council Chambers, 700 Watson Blvd. , Warner Robins. Praise and worship begins at 11:30 a.m.