National Day of Prayer
By Samantha Lyles, Staff Writer, slyles@newsandpress.net
On April 24, Darlington Mayor Gloria C. Hines (seated in photo) signed a proclamation naming May 2 as National Day of Prayer in Darlington.
Several pastors from local churches joined Hines, including (left to right in photo) Juan Gonzalez and Pastor Frankie L. Tanner of Mechanicsville Baptist Church, Rev. Alan Waibel of First Church of God, Dr. Brian Sherwood and Renny Johnson of First Baptist Church, Joe Willard of Welsh Neck Baptist Association, Rev. LaTonya Dash of St. James United Methodist Church and Rev. Dr. Laura Canine of Trinity United Methodist Church.
“Everybody needs prayer,” said Hines as she signed the document.
“With all the things happening in the world today, we need to come together. We need unity for the city of Darlington and all over the world.”
“My heart is that we won’t use this as a formality, as just a program,” said Sherwood. “I really want us to cry out to God on behalf of our cities, our state, our nation and ourselves. That’s what my prayer is this year.”
The city’s National Day of Prayer ceremony will take place May 2 at noon on the grounds of the Darlington County Courthouse.
The program will feature prayers for national, state and local government leaders, as well as first responders, educators, churches and families. Prayers will be delivered by a diverse group of pastors from area churches, and their messages will focus on this year’s national theme of “Love one another,” referencing John 13:34.
All are welcome to join in prayer and song.
In case of rain, the event will be moved to First Church of God, 620 North Main St., Darlington.
