Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) and fellow advisory committee members today hosted the 60th annual National Day of Prayer Service at the U.S. Capitol. The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May, inviting people to pray for America. This year's observance was themed "A Mighty Fortress is our God."
"Because of the faith of many of our founding fathers, national days of prayer have a long-standing and significant history in American tradition," said Aderholt. "This nation is great because our founding fathers committed to prayer and the principles of their faith and it's important for America to remember our heritage."
"In the aftermath of the devastating tornado outbreak that swept the Southeast, particularly in my home state of Alabama, I find great strength in prayer," added Aderholt. "The National Day of Prayer, couldn't come at a better time, because when disaster strikes, I believe it's faith, prayer and togetherness that will see us through."
Speakers at the service included Father Jerome A. Magat, Rabbi Daniel Lapin, Mr. Jared Anderson, Senate Chaplain Barry Black, Justice Paul Newby, Congressman Allen West of Florida, Mrs. Elizabeth Dole, Captain Ryan Voltin, Ambassador Roberto Saladin Selin of the Dominican Republic, Brig General Howard Stendahl, Ms. Ginny Owens and Dr. and Mrs. James Dobson of "Focus On The Family", an organization committed to helping families thrive.
The National Day of Prayer was officially created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. Every president since 1952 has signed a National Day of Prayer proclamation.
Aderholt, a champion of traditional Alabama values, currently serves as Chairman of the Subcommittee on Homeland Security for the powerful House Appropriations Committee, is a member of the Committee's Commerce, Justice and Science; and Agriculture Subcommittees, and also serves on the Helsinki Commission.