Our Local History
The National Day of Prayer is celebrating 29 years in existence in our country. The Lancaster County National Day of Prayer was officially established here in 1996, by Dona Fisher, who really had a passion to bring a large prayer gathering to our community. The evening “Celebration of Prayer” has grown and moved venues several times over the years. Prominent National speakers, teachers and authors have graced the stage over the years to encourage and challenge us to pray for our neighbor, our state and our country.
From the beginning of the annual prayer event, a choir was formed and has grown to over 100 voices. It is led by Director Amy Fennimore who officially named the choir One A-Chord.
Many esteemed speakers and renowned musical guests have come to Lancaster's celebration!
Chuck Swindoll | Joni Eareckson Tada| Beth Moore | Anne Graham Lotz | Michael W. Smith | Louie Giglio | Charles Billingsley | and many more!
Executive Leadership Team
Doug Myer, Chairperson, Lancaster NDP
Dona Fisher, Founder, Lancaster NDP
Herb Fisher, Co-Founder, Lancaster NDP
National Day of Prayer is
A DAY TO
- Recall the wisdom of God sought by the founding fathers
- Humbly ask God for guidance for leaders and grace for the people
- Unite Americans from all backgrounds in prayer
Our National History
The National Day of Prayer has a long history in the United States, with roots in the faith of the country’s founding fathers:
- 1775: The Continental Congress called for a day of prayer to ask for wisdom in forming the nation
- 1798: President John Adams declared a day of prayer and fasting
- 1863: President Abraham Lincoln called for a day of prayer and fasting during the Civil War
- 1952: President Harry S. Truman signed a joint resolution from Congress to establish an annual National Day of Prayer
- 1988: President Ronald Reagan signed legislation to permanently set the National Day of Prayer on the first Thursday of May
The National Day of Prayer is a day when Americans are encouraged to pray and meditate. The president signs a proclamation each year to encourage Americans to participate.
