Hundreds of Nebraskans filled the Nebraska State Capitol to pray for our state and nation at an annual prayer observance organized by Nebraska Family Alliance.
Held the first Thursday of May since 1988, National Day of Prayer is a yearly opportunity for the people of God to gather, seek His face, and pray for forgiveness, restoration, and guidance.
In the days leading up to the event, Governor Jim Pillen proclaimed May 2, 2024, a day of prayer in Nebraska and urged all citizens to join in united prayer for healing, wisdom, and wholeness. He said, “It is fitting and proper to give thanks to God by observing a day of prayer in Nebraska 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.”
United in faith and thanksgiving, Nebraskans from various denominations and diverse backgrounds worshiped side-by-side, and representatives from the church, government, family, school, media, business, and military led the crowd in prayer before joining together to sing “How Great Is Out God.”
“We know that prayers are effective and powerful,” said Nebraska Family Alliance Executive Director Karen Bowling. “Lasting change starts with prayer, and National Day of Prayer is a powerful reminder of what the fervent prayers of God’s people can accomplish.”
Halfway through the prayer service, attendees split into small groups to pray for the families and communities impacted by the devastating tornadoes and severe storms that recently struck eastern Nebraska.
In addition to the Nebraska Observance held at the State Capitol, faith leaders organized local prayer services at their churches, community centers, and city parks in 25+ cities and towns across Nebraska.
Senator Joni Albrecht of Thurston sponsored the event at the Capitol, and the theme—based on 2 Samuel 22:29—was “lift up the word, light up the world.”
“For You are my lamp, O Lord; The Lord shall enlighten my darkness.” 2 Samuel 22:29