For the 55th time, the nation gathered in prayer on Thursday. At Greenville City Hall, the ordained led those who had come in prayers for that nation.

Beneath a hot noon sun, ministers from across Greenville asked God for help. Help for our military, fighting in a desert a world away, asked Tim Patton. Help for our president, our governor, our mayor, asked Annette Thomley. Help for our families, trying to stay whole, asked Carolyn Griffin.

Thursday was National Day of Prayer.

Mayor Dexter McLendon asked those attending to pray for him and the city council. His friends, Buster and Sally Duke, lost a son last weekend, and he asked the people to pray for them as well.

&#8220This has been a tough week for me, personally,” he said.

He cited a pair of verses from 1 Timothy before closing:

&#8220I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all menŠFor kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.”

&#8220ŠThose who honor me, I will honorŠ” reminded Pastor Allen Stephenson, reading from 1 Samuel 2:30. He also helped distribute prayer guides entitled &#8220America, Honor God” to those in attendance.

Pastor Leander Robinson, Lois Robinson and Pat Lewis lifted their voices above the crowd in song, before ministers offered prayers for the Five Centers of Power - the government, the media, the education system, the church and the family.

&#8220In a world of much uncertainty, we have the assurance that God hears our prayers,” said Gov. Bob Riley.

&#8220The National Day of Prayer serves as a reminder of the importance of keeping God and prayer foremost in our lives.”