Local pastors and congregations attempted to “lift up the word and light up the world” during a nationwide event this week.
The 73rd annual National Day of Prayer was held Thursday, May 2, at 7 p.m. in Heritage Square, 400 N. Main St. in Taylor. It was hosted by the National Day of Prayer Task Force team, along with the Taylor Area Ministerial Alliance.
“Our country needs God like never before,” said Mary Flores, organizer and pastor. “In our lives, in our homes. We the people of God have received a mandate to lift up the word as God’s church and be a beacon of light against hatred and darkness.”
The event featured community leaders praying in the seven centers of influence in America which include business, church, military, family, government, media and education.
Flores prayed for family, Pastor Dennis Luton prayed for church, Pastor Jeff Ripple prayed for business, Pastor Shane Allen prayed for education, Pastor Adam Gusman prayed for military, Pastor Johnny Spence prayed for government and Christina Muhammad prayed for arts, media and entertainment.
Luton, an evangelist who said he pastored a church in Elgin for years, largely spoke to the present pastors during his speaking time. He said there’s something “big” happening within the Christian faith that serves as an opportunity to evangelize.
“We’re in trouble as America,” Luton said. “But God has the answer. I believe you pastors at the local church is the answer.”
Kristi Flores led the worship music on stage in between some of the prayers. Attendees could sit throughout the park while listening to the songs and prayers.
Mary Flores, team lead for National Day of Prayer in Taylor, opens the event in prayer. Photos by Hunter Dworaczyk
Dennis Luton, an Elgin pastor, talks about the opportunity for evangelization in today’s climate.
Fire fighters raised the United States flag before the event started to signify the nationwide aspect of National Day of Prayer.
