OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Rick West, R-Heavener, today signed and released a proclamation shared by a constituent regarding the importance of the National Day of Prayer, which is May 2.
Darlene Scroggins of Poteau shared the sample proclamation, asking West to release it to acknowledge this special day and declare a Day of Prayer for their House District 3.
The proclamation reads as follows:
"Since the founding of our nation, we have turned to God for guidance and wisdom. Our historical figures and leaders have consistently called upon their countrymen to collectively seek divine insight, acknowledging God’s role in guiding our nation toward a hopeful future. General George Washington declared a day for fasting and prayer during the uncertain times of our fight for independence. President Lincoln, in the aftermath of the Civil War, called upon prayer to heal the nation. Decades later, President Reagan recognized our enduring reliance on prayer through various trials, including wars and national crises.
"In contemporary times, this tradition of prayer persists as we face the hurdles of our own day. We find solace in prayer as we ask for spiritual renewal and strength to endure the trials before us. Prayer is the constant connection to the God who will guide us through any challenge our nation faces. We are reminded to seek divine wisdom and healing, just as our predecessors did in their time of need.
"Let us always remember that prayer is the compass that steers our nation, and with God, all things are achievable. In every season of life—whether in abundance or adversity, peace, or conflict—we depend on God’s boundless love, mercy, and wisdom. On this National Day of Prayer, we unite in prayer, trusting that our collective faith and reliance on God’s providence will grow our nation even stronger.
"In 1988, the Congress, by Public Law 100-307, as amended, called on the President to issue each year a proclamation designating the first Thursday in May as a National Day of Prayer, "on which the people of the United States may turn to God in prayer and meditation at churches, in groups, and as individuals.
"Now, I Rick West as representative of House District 3 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, do hereby proclaim May 2, 2024, as a National Day of Prayer. I encourage all Americans in my district to observe this day, reflecting on the blessings our Nation has received and the importance of prayer.
"IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this second day of May, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty four."
Rick West represents District 3 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which includes part of LeFlore County.