Robertson Howell

As gasoline and food prices rise and the death toll from the Iraq war mounts, Americans demand answers from the nation's leaders.

But some say we should look to another source for answers to the nation's ills.

"We realize we don't have answers, but God does," said Glen Lutz, Virginia coordinator for the National Day of Prayer, an annual observance this Thursday that invites all faiths to pray for the nation.

The National Day of Prayer was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of Congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. It focuses on seven areas of power: government, military, media, business, education, church and family.

This year's theme is "Prayer! America's Strength and Shield."

Several events will be held in Richmond, including an hourlong program starting at noon at the State Capitol Bell Tower at Ninth and Bank streets. The Richmond Police Choir will perform, and the J.R. Tucker High School ROTC will present the flags.

Leaders scheduled to participate include House of Delegates Speaker William J. Howell; Richmond City Councilwoman Ellen F. Robertson; and Bishop Darryl F. Husband, senior pastor of Mount Olivet Church.

For the first time, in a coordinated nationwide effort, pilots will fly over all 50 state capitals while they and their passengers pray.

In Richmond, the day will begin with a prayer breakfast at First Baptist Church, 2709 Monument Ave. Reservations can be made by calling Daniel Scott at (804) 775-1544.

Other area churches that will hold prayer services include Mount Olivet Church, 1223 N. 25th Street in Richmond, Bon Air Baptist Church, 2531 Buford Road in Chesterfield County, and Ironbridge Baptist Church, 10900 Iron Bridge Road in Chester.

Participants also will gather from noon to 1 p.m. at the Old Courthouse Lawn at state Route 10 and Lori Road in Chesterfield.

The annual prayer program is an effort "by believers all across the country to pray for our country," said Elaine Hanger, coordinator for Chesterfield's program.

"Prayer is always important, but I believe our country is in dire need of prayer right now when I look at the number of abortions, breakups of families and people on drugs," she said. "Our country needs to recognize where to find answers for our problems. If we turn to Scriptures, our problems would be fewer."

For details about events from Annandale to Yorktown, go to pray4va.org.
Contact Robin Farmer at (804) 649-6312 or rfarmer@timesdispatch.com