Day of Prayer observance

Pastor Chuck Tyree, of the Norwich Alliance Church, and I organized Norwich's observance of the National Day of Prayer today. We met at City Hall where about seventeen people gathered to pray for our city, our nation, the men and women who serve in government, and those who are sworn to serve and protect.

We took turns praying for the various groups who were mentioned. Rev. Jeff Sharp of the Norwich Worship Center prayed for the police and fire departments and those who watch over the city and its residents. He prayed for the medical personnel in our hospitals and in the emergency vehicles. Pastor Michelle Madsen Bibeau of Central Baptist Church prayed for our nation, our President and the members of congress as they seek to lead us in these challenging times.

Ron Ward, the Director of Children's First Initiative prayed for our children and asked that they might have teachers who nurture and mentor them with love. He prayed for the educatoors and the parents who are called to shape the next generation. Rev. Gary Poorman prayed for the local government, our Mayor and the City Council and asked that they might be given the gifts of wisdom and discernment as they lead our city. Sister Mary Anne Guertin from Catholic Charities prayed for the social service agencies and those who work with the poor and those in need. Rev. Greg Perry prayed for those in the military and those who have been called to protect our freedoms across the world. Mayor Ben Lathrop joined the group and he asked for continued prayers for the city and the decisions that need to be made.

We prayed for those affected by the downturn in the economy. We prayed for the YMCA and thanked God for the good work that had been done through the years. We even asked for a little miracle on its behalf.

It was a good time of prayer where people came together in the name of God to simply ask His blessing on our world. I was proud to be a part of it.

Cal

PS You can check out the photos in the Norwich Bulletin at http://ow.ly/5DHk