More than 300 gather for day of prayer

More than 300 worshippers gathered Thursday for the National Day of Prayer looked to the heavens for more than just guidance.

CNJ staff photo: Tonjia Rolan

Oyin Kokoricha, left, and daughter Ariel, right, attend Thursday's National Day of Prayer observance held on Main Street in front of the courthouse.

Pastor David Swann of Faith Christian Family Church kicked off observance in front of Curry County Courthouse with a plea to the heavens for rain and an end to the drought.

Last year was the sixth driest in recorded New Mexico history, and a dry start to this year has added to the problem, causing hardship for farmers and ranchers.

A highlight of the gathering was a group of 4-year-olds, from Clovis Nazarene School, who boldly belted out renditions of "The Star Spangled Banner," "God Bless America" and "Grand Old Flag."

During the interdenominational gathering, church and public officials offered prayers for families, businesses, churches, schools, the military and the media.

Steve Reshetar, director of the Matt 25 Hope Center, said he was there to "support our country." Reshetar said he's seen a decline in the family structure and noted "we've gotten away from good moral principles we should maintain."

Ken Urban, of Grace Fellowship, appealed for forgiveness of the Christian church's complacency and failure to stand up for what is right.

Clovis Mayor David Lansford called upon government at all levels to recognize God "as the highest authority."

The gathering marked the 61st anniversary of National Day of Prayer, which was instituted by President Harry Truman in 1952.