Thursday marked the 61st annual National Day of Prayer observance, and around 20 people gathered on the front steps of Richmond Hill City Hall to pray for national, state and city leaders, families and others.
Local pastors, Mayor Harold Fowler and Police Chief Billy Reynolds all read various bible passages and led the group in related prayers.
Prayers for the nation, President Barack Obama and his family, Vice President Joe Biden and his family and members of congress were said, along with prayers for community and state leaders.
Resident Becky Burnsed, who attended the observance, noted the importance of praying for national, state and local leaders.
“Prayer is the only hope for our nation and the bible told us to pray without ceasing,” she said. “The bible also tells us to pray for those with authority over us.”
Glenn Martin, pastor of Richmond Hill United Methodist Church, said the event represents unity.
 “It gives us an opportunity to share our common needs across the community and county,” Martin said. “Prayer brings unity to all Christians. No matter our differences, we all believe in prayer.”
Read more in the May 5 edition of the News.