President Donald Trump and prominent faith leaders will address the American people Thursday, May 7, from the White House on the National Day of Prayer.
The National Day of Prayer first became a tradition in 1775, when the Continental Congress set aside the day to pray over the new nation they were forming. President Harry Truman signed the National Day of Prayer into law in 1952, and President Ronald Reagan amended the law in 1988 to designate it for the first Thursday of May.
Each year, faith-based events are scheduled around the country as people gather to pray. This year, most events have been moved online because of the coronavirus pandemic and related stay-at-home orders.
Pastor Greg Laurie and Pastor Jack Graham will lead a virtual event Thursday at 7 p.m. EST, featuring special guests including Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, Franklin Graham and Dr. Tony Evans.
Last year, during Trump’s speech from the White House Rose Garden, he praised the miracle-working power of prayer. He invited victims of a San Diego terrorist attack that happened that year as well as a woman who found freedom from drug addiction through Jesus Christ.
This year, Trump again will address the United States and Paula White Cain, head of the White House Faith and Opportunity Initiative, will offer a prayer for the country. Watch the event live here.
