Pictured are three of the participants in the National Day of Prayer Event. Left to right: Christine Ellis, special speaker; Nathaniel Thomas, military participant; Jeanette Cline, moderator and coordinator.
For nearly 300 attendees it was a morning to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the USA and the 75th year for the National Day of Prayer. It was held at the Oakwood Country Club Ballroom on Thursday, May 7. The Sun Lakes Keyboard Connection Ensemble provided 30 minutes of Patriotic music prior to the program. They also played all of the military songs including the new Space Force song.
Dave Wortman welcomed the guests and gave the opening prayer. Then thirteen students from the Solas Academy were on the first part of the program. They presented historical events of the founding fathers and of former U.S. Presidents with their words for prayers. It was evident that prayer has been a dynamic force throughout the 250 years of America.
Christine Ellis, a member of the city council for Chandler, was the special speaker for the morning event. She is originally from Haiti and has a very interesting life story to share. She included how prayer had been a part of her life and its true meaning for her.
Another speaker was Katie Philpott. Representing Turning Point USA, she provided the audience with information about the organization. She gave insight as to where Turning Point has been and the direction it is headed with many new high school and college groups organizing clubs.
Those representing the various branches of the military, either past or present, were recognized. Nathaniel Thomas in uniform from the Army Reserve, participated with scripture.
Several from the community read scriptures and prayers for the seven focus areas of our lives: family, church, education, business and workplace, government, military, and the arts, media and entertainment.
Special baritone soloist Gregor McHardy from Mesa, sang “God Bless the USA” and Lori Morgan from Scottsdale performed an arrangement of “America, the Beautiful.” Gene Cline led the audience in singing several patriotic songs that were interspersed between elements of the programming. A special reading,”I am the American Flag” was presented by David Morgan, of Scottsdale. The Inspirational Dancers from Gilbert concluded with a dance choreographed by Nancy Moline to the “The Lord’s Prayer.”
The program ended with those in attendance singing “God Bless America.” Everyone left with a spirit of having a morning filled with love and admiration for our country. Jeanette Cline moderated the program and was the coordinator for the event.