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Frequently Asked Questions
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What is
the National Day of Prayer?
The National Day of Prayer was established as an annual event in
1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress and
signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. The observance of
the National Day of Prayer is founded on the constitutional
rights of freedom of speech and freedom of religion and can be
celebrated by all Americans.
What is the NDP Task Force and what is its purpose?
The NDP Task Force concentrates on the need to pray for the
well-being of America and for those in leadership on all levels
of national, church and educational areas of influence. The
National Day of Prayer is observed on the first Thursday of May
each year.
When did the NDP begin?
Days of prayer have been called for since 1775, when the
Continental Congress designated a time for prayer in forming a
new nation. In 1863, Abraham Lincoln called for such a day.
Officially, the NDP was established as an annual event by an act
of Congress in 1952 and was signed into law by President Truman.
President Reagan amended the law in 1988, designating the first
Thursday of May each year as the NDP.
Is
the NDP exclusively a Christian event?
No. This government-proclaimed day is offered to all Americans,
regardless of religion, to celebrate their faith through prayer.
However, the efforts of the NDP Task Force are executed
specifically in accordance with its Judeo-Christian beliefs.
Is
the NDP a political event?
No. The National Day of Prayer, as designated by our government,
belongs to all Americans. It is not sponsored or owned by any
one group. Every American can observe the NDP in his or her own
way. Each year, the President issues a proclamation in support
of this significant day.
Who
is behind the NDP Task Force?
The Chairman is Mrs. Shirley Dobson, who has held the position
since 1991. Mrs. Dobson volunteers her time and does not receive
a salary. The NDP Task Force consists of a full-time staff and a
network of thousands of grassroots volunteers nationwide. Prior
to Mrs. Dobson's involvement, the Task Force was led by Mrs.
Vonette Bright, wife of former Campus Crusade for Christ
president and founder Bill Bright.
Is
the Task Force affiliated with Focus on the Family?
No. Though Mrs. Dobson is married to Focus on the Family board
chairman and founder Dr. James Dobson, the NDP Task Force is a
separate organization. It is housed in the Focus on the Family
headquarters for convenience, so long as Mrs. Dobson remains the
Chairman. Its business affairs are separate and Focus on the
Family is compensated for services rendered. However, between
1990 and 1993, Focus on the Family did provide grants in support
of the NDP Task Force. Since then, the Task Force has been
completely self-supported.
What kinds of events are planned?
The most visible gathering has been held historically at our
nation's Capitol in Washington, D.C. on the first Thursday of
May. The executive, legislative and judicial branches of
government are represented, as well as the military. In
addition, Christian leaders address the current year's theme and
other areas of interest (i.e. education, youth, families, etc.).
In 2004, approximately 40,000 events were held nationwide. Local
volunteers and coordinators held a variety of activities ranging
from prayer breakfasts, Bible reading marathons, concerts of
prayer, rallies, church prayer vigils, student flagpole
gatherings and observances held in sports stadiums.. In
addition, Christian leaders address the current year's theme and
other areas of interest (i.e. education, youth, families, etc.).
What is the National Day of Prayer Sunday?
On Sunday, MAY 1st, in Churches, when 40 million Christians come
together to worship, "Take Five to Pray The Freedom Five (pray
one minute each for these 5 centers of influence: church,
family, education, government and media;). Pray for renewal in
our hearts and repentance to come to America." Why not claim
this Sunday as NDP Sunday, forever, in your church! This can
kick off whatever the churches and NDP coordinators want to do
during the week, on up to the day of celebration and declaration
on NDP Thursday." | |
Indiana - National Day of Prayer 865 Country Walk Court Brownsburg Indiana 46112 Copyright © Indiana - National Day of Prayer 2003-2014 |
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