Our Opinion: An invitation to observe a Day of Prayer

Prayer may take a variety of forms — from silent to aloud, private to public, solitary to combined, personal to intercessory.

During Thursday’s observance of National Day of Prayer, Central Missouri is invited to a number of area events based on the theme, “Wake Up America.”

According to the event website, the theme reflects Isaiah 58:1: “Shout it aloud, do not hold back. Raise your voice like a trumpet.”

Although the U.S. Constitution outlines the doctrine that separates government from the establishment of religion, government acknowledges religion may be freely expressed by the people.

In 1952, Congress created the annual observance of the National Day of Prayer by approving a joint resolution that was signed into law by President Harry S. Truman.

Unity, not division, is the goal. According to the website, the observance invites, “people of all faiths to pray for our nation.”

As evidence that public venues can accommodate prayer — including prayer involving public officials — without establishing religion, consider:

• Jefferson City’s mayor and Cole County’s presiding commissioner will host a prayer breakfast Thursday morning.

• Public school students will gather for student-led prayers at school flag poles before the school day begins Thursday.

• The Capitol building will host two Day of Prayer events — one in the Rotunda and another on the south steps — on Thursday.

Prayer is unique to each person, and some people will elect solitary, silent prayer.

But the invitation to National Day of Prayer is extended to everyone.

According to organizers, the observance “belongs to all Americans and is a day that transcends differences, bringing together citizens to celebrate our most beloved freedom; the freedom to humbly come before God and seek His guidance in prayer.”

The faith community welcomes everyone, in the spirit of unity, to participate.