Pray to be strong and courageous

"I want to say one name this afternoon - Jesus Christ - just 'cause we can," said the Rev. Pat Propster, president of the Carson City Ministerial Fellowship.

His comment came during Thursday's National Day of Prayer celebration on the steps of the state Capitol. This year's theme was "Let Freedom Ring."

"As Gary Leist, my music ministry leader said, 'There is no separation of church and state today at the Capitol, except by the soles of your shoes.'"

The Carson City Ministerial Fellowship hosted the event. Readings of state and national proclamations were given, with Mayor Ray Masayko reading his own proclamation. Local pastors then prayed for the city, state, nation, military forces and youth and families.

The crowd stood and praised God in the warm afternoon sun.

Before reading his proclamation, Masayko commended the pastors for leading the event and serving the community well.

"It is important that I, as an elected official, take the time to acknowledge this day, National Day of Prayer," Masayko said. "I enjoy being a part of this day."

Alan Dorway, associate pastor at First Presbyterian Church, prayed for the youth and their needs in the community, particularly for young people not to give in to peer pressure. He asked everyone to get involved with the lives of youth, greet them with a smile and encourage them to be a part of God's life.

Carson City resident Rose Feltner and her sons William, 14, and David, 11, attended the event.

"This is a way for us to be a part of the community," she said.

Feltner said as Dorway prayed for the youth and city and offered a moment of silence, it gave her time to reflect and pray for her own family, as well as others.

"This is a great way to be able to pray with the community and all different religions."

Seeing a crowd of about 175 people, Propster said he was pleased with the turnout.

"In times like this, be strong and be courageous," Propster said.

Propster and the crowd gave a standing ovation of cheer as he thanked officials for speaking and attending on their own time, and standing for the beliefs on which the country was founded.

Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.