HARRELLS — On Thursday, May 6, the town of Harrells and Harrells Christian Academy joined together to celebrate the 59th Annual National Day of Prayer. In spite of a federal judge issuing a ruling striking down the National Day of Prayer as unconstitutional, the townspeople and students proudly united to seek God’s blessing on our country. Speakers represented the school and the community, ministers and lay people.

The 2010 Prayer for Our Nation by Franklin Graham, this year’s Honorary Chairman was read in Harrells as it was around the nation; uniting diverse people in our common belief in our country. In Graham’s prayer he requested “Help us to pray earnestly for our president and leaders who govern, that they will humble themselves and seek Your guidance” and “May our prayers as a people and a nation be heard and blessed for such a time as this.”

President Barak Obama issued a proclamation proclaiming May 6, 2010 as a national day of prayer. He stated that “Throughout our history, whether in times of great joy and thanksgiving, or in times of great challenge and uncertainty, Americans have turned to prayer. In prayer, we have expressed gratitude and humility, sought guidance and forgiveness, and received inspiration and assistance, both in good times and in bad.”

James C. Moore , Harrells mayor, stated in his proclamation that “it is fitting and proper to give thanks to God by observing a day of prayer in the Town of Harrells when all may acknowledge our blessings and express gratitude for them, while recognizing the need for strengthening religious and moral values in our State and Nation.”

The Rev. Ulysses Newkirk, who prayed for our government, shared how glad he was to be a part of such a gathering and pledged support in the future. Gene Sandlin brought prayers for our military. Tim Cagwin, instructor at Harrells Christian Academy, said prayers for the media and its influence on our society. Andy Wells, assistant headmaster and business manager at HCA, brought prayers for our business community. Dr. Ron Montgomery, headmaster at HCA, brought a unique perspective to his prayers for education. Susan Corliss-Bland said prayers for our church leaders. The Rev. Eric Rich brought heartfelt prayers for the family.

Many felt the highlight of the event was watching the children. Quiet and respectful during the prayers, they came alive to perform their songs. “That’s How We Praise Him” and “Heal our Land” were skillfully directed by Margo Bowker, music instructor for HCA. Following the prayer time, guests were invited by Virgal Raymond to come over to the Harrells Town Hall for refreshments.

Susan Corliss-Bland, the coordinator of the event said “I want to thank the many people that came together to plan and execute the event. I am so very proud to be a part of a community where we can still exercise our religious freedom with such support from our leaders.”