Thursday marks this year’s National Day of Prayer, a time when Americans pray for their country in solemn and joyful supplication on a nationwide scale.
The annual observance was established by an act of Congress in 1952 and regularly features tens of thousands of local events across the United States.
For generations, presidents of both parties have issued proclamations calling for a National Day of Prayer, releasing such proclamations throughout the year.
Here are 12 inspirational quotes from presidential proclamations made through the years in honor of the prayer-filled observance.
October 1955 Proclamation
Expand | Collapse
(Photo: Public Domain)Former general and president of the United States of America, Dwight David Eisenhower.
“… all of those whom we have revered as leaders throughout our history have been wont to turn to Almighty God in thanks for His providence and in suppliance for His guidance; and … it is fitting that we of this generation, who are the heirs of their handiwork, should emulate those inspired builders of our Nation and should turn our hearts and minds to things spiritual.”
Baker Books, Hanspeter NueschProminent Evangelist Billy Graham prays with President John F. Kennedy. Graham biographer Hanspeter Nuesch explained that even though he rubbed shoulders with famous people, Graham did not stress fame – he even told the president to all him back because he was speaking with his maid.
“Let us pray for our Nation and for other nations of the world. Alay we especially ask…
We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.