SIDNEY — Shelby County is bringing back its annual National Day of Prayer event. On May 5 at noon people will be joining on the courtsquare’s south lawn to pray over Shelby County.

The first Thursday of May was designated by Congress as National Day of Prayer, a time to turn to God in prayer and meditation, in 1952. Across the United States, at various locations and times, people will be gathering to cover their communities and nation in prayer.

In January the Shelby County National Day of Prayer committee began praying over each focus area and who God wanted to pray over these areas. The committee is excited to share who God has prepared for this year‘s National Day of Prayer event.

Captain Samantha Lockard from The Salvation Army will open the event in prayer. Followed by Pastor Fred Gillenwater from Russell Road Church praying over the Church, locally and worldwide.

Jeff Banks from Wells Brothers will be praying for families and Todd Miller from Isaiah Industries will be praying over business.

Stefanie Hale from the Landings of Sidney will be praying over health care and Karen McRill from Fairlawn School will be praying over education.

First Sgt. Mark Carlson if the National Guard will be praying over the military and Sidney Code enforcer Arthur Franklin will be praying over government.

Local artist Mary Smith will be praying over Art, Media and Entertainment.

Botkins Police Chief Mark Jordan will be praying for First Responders and Roger Lentz, retired USDA Farm Agent, will be praying for agriculture.

Marie Bell from Connection Point Church of God will be closing the time of prayer.

Special music selections will be presented by Stefanie and Johnathan Hale from Connection Point Church of God.

The event is open to the public.