Letter: Observing a day of prayer

To the editor:
   
Appropriately and timely, on Thursday, America will observe its 52nd annual "National Day of Prayer" and New Jersey will commemorate its 11th "Day of Prayer in New Jersey." The chosen theme for this year’s National Day of Prayer is, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people."
   How grateful we are to God who created, loves and sustains us. We have abundant blessings for which to thank God, including the end of the unavoidable war with Saddam Hussein and the return of POWs. As we acknowledge our dependence on God, we also have much to ask of him.
   President George W. Bush will issue a proclamation and Gov. James E. McGreevey issued one as early as Jan. 21. Many New Jersey mayors have proclaimed May 1 a "Day of Prayer" in their municipalities. Has yours? Many spiritual leaders are planning events for that day. Has yours? We thank God for leaders, both civic and spiritual, who realize the inestimable value of corporate prayer in their communities. God bless them.
   New Jersey’s P.L. 1994, Chapter 44, approved June 21, 1994, Assembly No. 1405, reads in part, "It is fitting and proper to give thanks to god by observing a day of prayer in New Jersey when all may acknowledge our blessings and express gratitude for them, while recognizing the need for strengthening religious and moral values in our state and nation; the first Thursday in May each year is designated as ‘A Day of Prayer in New Jersey’ and citizens are urged to observe the day in ways appropriate to its importance and significance."
   I suggest that each of us take some time to follow the suggestions above. First and foremost, we cannot over emphasize the value of vital, private, personal prayer. As private citizens, we can do a lot of protective, corrective and preventive praying for our leaders and communities, both civic and religious. Secondly, please let your mayor, as well as your pastor, priest or rabbi, know how much you appreciate their efforts by attending local prayer gatherings that day. May God reward you and your community, blessed by the prayers of the faithful.
Miles Bennett

Monroe