From left are Parkway Baptist Temple administrator Robby Dunn, Parkway Baptist Temple pastor David Sampson, Lakeside Baptist Church pastor Clyde Painter and Anchor of Hope Baptist Church pastor Brian Haney. The four men will host "A Mighty Fortress is our God" National Day of Prayer May 5 at the Ringgold Depot from noon to 1 p.m.
Photo by Katie WardThe Ringgold Depot grounds will be the site of a gathering for the National Day of Prayer May 5 at noon.
In its second year in downtown Ringgold, the 2011 theme is "A Mighty Fortress is our God." The 2010 Ringgold Day of Prayer boasted a crowd of about 500 people at the Depot.
"I can't think of another time when we need prayer more than today for our city, county, state and for America," said Lakeside Baptist Church pastor Clyde Painter, who will welcome guests at the Depot May 5. "We will join that day to pray for wisdom and understanding and direction for our country and its leaders. Everyone is invited to come stop by and see what's happening."
Ringgold High School Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps will present the colors and Dogwood Christian Academy students will lead the pledges. Local leaders will begin the event by taking turns praying for the military, national government leaders, public servants, young people, city and county communities, pastors' wives and all women, churches, missions and revival. The Jeff Hullender family will sing a song midway through the prayers. Linda Hicks will perform "God Bless America" at the end.
"Prayer is the essence of our spiritual life," said Painter. "We are admonished in the word of God to pray always and continuously for our nation, leaders and ourselves."
Painter said 2011 marks the 60th annual National Day of Prayer. Anchor of Hope Baptist Church pastor Brian Haney said he hopes a stream of revival will be the result of the day.
"Prayer speaks all languages and reaches all lands," said Parkway Baptist Temple pastor David Sampson, who will participate in the event. "The Day of Prayer gives our country a sense of community within the bonds of prayer."
• To learn more about Ringgold's Day of Prayer go to YouTube and key in "Ringgold, Ga., National Day of Prayer". To talk to Ringgold Day of Prayer coordinator and pastor Clyde Painter call (706) 218-6967. To learn more about the National Day of Prayer, visit the event's website.