MARYSVILLE – About 50 people congregated around the pavilion in Comeford Park on a sunny Thursday to lift their hands in observance of the 66th annual National Day of Prayer.
Speakers expressed their support for the power of prayer and the well-being of the Marysville community, and the country.
“I’m blessed and honored to be able to stand before you today and pray for our nation, our city, businesses, schools, military,” media and the family, said Mary Salamon, co-coordinator of the event with Marysville House of Prayer.
Marysville City Council President Kamille Norton attested to the fabulous partnership and relationship the city has with the faith-based community.
“We are so grateful to you for the work you do for the city, reaching out and touching the lives of so many,” she said.
The National Day of Prayer was established in 1952 by a joint resolution of Congress and signed into law by President Truman.
Observance is founded on the constitutional rights of freedom of speech and freedom of religion, providing a day for people of all faiths to pray for their community.
Spiritual leaders at the event spoke about a general undercurrent of fear and anxiety that permeates society today, and that extends into the churches, too.
Grove Street Church Pastor Nik Baumgart said pastors and parishioners need to be willing to support each other, interact and pray with others, and serve their communities.
“We follow what God has to say forth,” Baumgart said.
Linda Groff of Marysville said she enjoyed the fellowship at the event. She viewed the day as “a time to thank the Lord for what he’s done and see guidance in doing his work.”
Prayers from different denominations and vocations were also offered by Sam Misquez with the Tulalip Tribes, Irma DeWaters representing schools, Retired Navy Lt. Cmdr. Aletha Tatge, Marysville Globe/Arlington Times Managing Editor Steve Powell and Shawn Schrader with a benediction.
Live music, and the American Legion Post #178 Color Guard represented by Ken Cage and Tony Campbell, opened the event.
