Weirton observes National Day of Prayer
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WEIRTON -- Led by clergy from various denominations, area residents gathered in front of the Weirton Municipal Building Thursday, offering prayers for residents, the community and nation.
The service, organized by the Weirton Ministerial Association, was among several held throughout the valley as part of local observances of the National Day of Prayer.
"It's a blessing to be in a city that backs you and supports you," explained Elder Michael Smith, of Weirton Covenant Church, who served as master of ceremonies for Thursday's service.
An annual day of observance, designated by Congress and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman in 1952, the National Day of Prayer today is recognized on the first Thursday of May, offering an opportunity for people of all religions to unite in prayer.
The Rev. Bennett Briles, of Weirton Church of the Nazarene, recalled many of the things which have helped to build the Weirton of today, from the current of the Ohio River, to the strength of the steel produced here, as well as the power to be provided by batteries set to be manufactured in the future.
"While all those things are good and valuable, the most important thing is that we pray," Briles said, noting God is stronger than steel, has more power than the batteries, and is more everlasting than the river.
The Rev. James E. Brown of Morning Star Baptist Church, encouraged residents to put their faith and their fate in God, and Craig Greathouse, senior pastor at Family of God Christian Center, noted the power of prayer in fighting against the darkness.
Also offering prayers were Pastor Gary C. Lilly of Restoration Church and Capt. Gene Hunt of the Salvation Army.
Mayor Harold "Bubba" Miller and Assistant City Manager DeeAnn Pulliam offered a proclamation, officially recognizing the Day of Prayer in the city.
"We need to be closer to the Lord," Miller said.
Police Chief Charlie Kush and Fire Chief Kevin Himmelrick lead those gathered in the Pledge of Allegiance, while Kriss Pino closed the ceremony with a performance of "God Bless the USA."