Faith leaders, community members unite for National Day of Prayer in South Mississippi

BILOXI, Miss. (WLOX) - On Thursday, communities across South Mississippi observed National Day of Prayer with worship. This year’s theme, “Pour out to the God of hope and be filled,” is based on Romans 15:13.

Biloxi

People came together to pray at Biloxi City Hall on Thursday. The hour-long event included ten speakers and had dozens in attendance.

Biloxi National Day of Prayer co-coordinator Robin Killeen said she was proud to see a full room.

“People are thirsty for prayer. This is a great opportunity for us to come together in unity, one accord, praying to one true god. I’m not surprised at all,” said Killeen.

The ceremony also included a shofar, which is a ram’s horn used for traditional worship.

Gulfport

Gulfport celebrated the 74th annual National Day of Prayer on Thursday.

People gathered at Jones Park for worship and to pray for the country. The event included live music and multiple speakers.

Gulfport National Day of Prayer coordinator Genendal Fratantuono said it means a lot to see everyone come together to pray.

“We were founded on Christian principles, and we got to rebuild that foundation of righteousness that was first built by our four fathers, so I’m happy to be here today to coordinate this,” said Fratantuono.

Long Beach

At a National Day of Prayer event in Long Beach, pastors said prayers for the community, government, and businesses. The Long Beach High School Choir also performed at the event.

Mayor George Bass and other city leaders said it’s always great when a community can come out and pray together.

Ocean Springs

Ocean Springs held its annual National Day of Prayer event at Greyhound Stadium Thursday night.

Pastors and community leaders led the crowd in fellowship, worship, and prayer.

Event officials and volunteers from Ocean Springs High School’s Greyhounds for Christ shared their love for both the community and faith.

“If there’s one thing I could say, ‘if people don’t love you, God always will,” said Ocean Springs High School senior Corey Leyens.

Moss Point

On Thursday in Moss Point, congregations gathered outside City Hall to pray together. People also sang and offered testimony.

Ward 2 Alderman Darius Wilson said prayer is needed more now than ever.

“It is a time for us to lay aside all differences, especially in a time like this, with all that is going on in our nation, our local communities, and our families, it is just necessary,” said Wilson. “This is an opportunity for us to come together on one accord to call on god together with a pure heart.”

Moss Point Mayor Billy Knight and other city leaders also attended the event.

Pascagoula

On Thursday at the Jackson County Courthouse in Pascagoula, prayers echoed through the courtroom.

People prayed for the government, military, families, churches, schools, and the media.

“We’re all coming together for one purpose, and that’s to pray,” said Pasdcagoula National Day of Prayer coordinator Liz Hoop. “We’re America. We’re built on ‘In God We Trust,’ and that’s what we do, we trust in God.”

Pascagoula Mayor Jay Willis also read a proclamation recognizing May 1 as National Day of Prayer.

Picayune

In Picayune, the community gathered for the annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast.

The event featured prayers from pastors representing churches in the area.

Picayune Police Chief Joe Quave delivered the keynote address, where he spoke of leadership, faith, and the importance of being a good person.

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