With sunshine overhead, the smell of fresh mulch on the playground and green grass under foot, residents and clients of The Salvation Army Center of Hope gathered in the Lohman Prayer Garden to pray Thursday.
On the 60th annual National Day of Prayer, Maj. K. Kendall Mathews encouraged that prayer is communication with God, who can be one's mighty fortress and strong tower, even in times of transition.
In addition to remembering governmental leaders, religious unity and the local community, Mathews asked for personal prayer requests. Jobs, places to live, health issues and grieving losses were the immediate concerns for the group.
"God knows the intent of your heart," Mathews said. "You can find eternal relief from knowing Jesus Christ."
This was the first year for The Salvation Army to participate in the National Day of Prayer.