The country and Fountain Hills will observe a National Day of Prayer (NDOP) May 5.

The town will celebrate at the Fountain Park amphitheater.

The NDOP theme for 2016 is “Wake Up America.” The scripture is Isaiah 58:1a, “'Shout it aloud, do not hold back, raise your voice like a trumpet.”

Guests are invited to enjoy complimentary hot dogs, beverages and desserts from 5 to 5:45 p.m. before the program. The program will start at 6 p.m.

The local NDOP Committee continues to emphasize the importance of prayer as a testimony to who God is, what we believe and the fact that our Nation was founded upon the truths of God’s Word.

The focus of prayer for April is the church.

The committee asks people to “Pray for an increase of vitality, renewal and vision that is from God for the church community, so the church will be revitalized as a caring, committed community for His Kingdom.

“Pray that church members will give genuine hospitality to all who come through the doors and provide an environment where newcomers will sense the love of Christ and the sincere invitation to fellowship.

“Ask God to provide opportunities for our church congregations to work in unison in larger town-wide outreaches. Let a sense of unity develop between all believers in the community with regard to reaching people for Christ.”

Prayer for Church

Gracious Father, stir up the gift of your Holy Spirit in us, who are Your church.

Help us to always love one another, to study, to understand and stay true to Your Word.

Help us to provide a loving atmosphere where children will find You.

We pray for protection and good health for our pastors, staff, teachers and their families.

We pray that pastors and congregations will stay true to the Bible.

Protect and empower all the Christians in the world to stand up boldly for You as they spread the good news of Jesus Christ with the people they meet.

Continue to help our Christian communities gather together and be a true light on the hill where all can sense the Love of Christ.

We pray for the persecuted Christians in the world. We repent for our wrongdoings and ask for your forgiveness.

We love you God and praise and thank you for sending your son Jesus Christ to die for our sins.

In Jesus’ name we pray.