The national event may include musical performances from bands and choirs, community breakfasts or luncheons, prayer walks or evening worship services.

Since the first call to prayer in 1775, public prayer and national days of prayer have had a longstanding and significant history in American tradition.

According to the National Day of Prayer website, President Lincoln proclaimed a day to be set aside for “humiliation, fasting and prayer” in 1863. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed the permanent day of observance nationally into law.

NDP chair Shirley Dobson said it’s important that the public support and become involved.

“The National Day of Prayer belongs to all Americans,” Dobson said, in a statement on the National Day of Prayer website. “It’s a day that transcends differences, bringing together citizens from all backgrounds … if we do not become involved and support the annual National Day of Prayer, we could end up forfeiting this freedom … “

To participate or to set up a group or to hold an event, call 221-3446 or visit nationaldayofprayer.org.