By Haley Mitchell Godwin

The steps of the Crenshaw County Courthouse were transformed into a sanctuary of unity and reflection May 2, as citizens gathered to observe the National Day of Prayer (NDP).

Jack Anderson, director of missions for the Alabama-Crenshaw Baptist Association, welcomed attendees and introduced the theme for the annual event, “Lift Up the Word-Light Up the World.” After Anderson thanked those in attendance for coming, Pastor Randy Sexton of Pleasant Home Baptist Church read 2 Samuel 22:29-31, emphasizing the importance of citizens confessing sins and praying for one another, so that they might be healed.

The reading set the tone for the prayers that followed.

Retired Patsburg Baptist Church pastor Al Freeman led the group in the Pledge of Allegiance just before the Luverne High School Band played the “National Anthem.” Freeman also said the first prayer, beseeching divine guidance and repentance for the nation’s transgressions.

“Father in heaven, we thank you for your grace and kindness,” Freeman said. “You are mighty and holy and you always have been and always will be. Father, we pray for America and the sins we are indulging in and we as a people are just standing by and letting it happen. Oh father, help us. We pray for repentance. We pray for our leaders and pray we can serve you with our whole hearts and go out and make a difference in your name.”

Subsequent prayers, led by Pastor Dunford Cole of Rutledge and Campground Methodist churches and Pastor Greg Sanders of Glenwood Baptist Church and others, echoed themes of faith, community and righteousness.

Cole expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the NDP. Reflecting on the atmosphere of hope and unity, Cole emphasized the transformative power of collective faith, citing Proverbs 11:14 as a beacon of guidance.

“The sight of community members coming together to pray for our nation, leaders and communities was truly inspiring,” Cole said. “The atmosphere was filled with hope, unity and a deep sense of togetherness as we raised our voices in prayer together. It was a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and the strength that arises when we unite in times of hardship. Leaving the courthouse, I was filled with a profound sense of upliftment and gratitude for being able to contribute to such a significant and meaningful event. Proverbs 11:14 says ‘For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.’ and victory can be ours in the Lord.”

Wes Hatcher, pastor at Brantley Baptist Church, directed prayers toward the local communities within Crenshaw County, while pastor Jud Flint of Faith Walk Church extended prayers for Israel, the military and global peace, urging all Christians to steadfastly walk in righteousness.

The ceremony drew to a close with a final prayer from First Baptist Church Luverne pastor Clay Crum, invoking blessings and guidance for all present and beyond.

Kathy Branzell, President of the National Day of Prayer Task Force, emphasized the transformative power of collective prayer, highlighting its ability to shape not just the course of events, but the destiny of souls and the Kingdom itself.

“These gatherings serve as a reminder of the potency of prayer and the unity it fosters,” said Branzell. “Our collective prayers, offered with humility and fervor, serve as catalysts for divine intervention, shaping the narratives of tomorrow.”

For additional National Day of Prayer information or resources, please visit www.nationaldayofprayer.org.