Governor Joe Lombardo has officially proclaimed May 1st, 2025, as a Day of Prayer in Nevada. The announcement maintains a longstanding American tradition dating back to the First Continental Congress in 1775.
What Happened?
On April 25th, Governor Lombardo signed the proclamation in Carson City. Many folks gathered at the State Capitol to pray together for Nevada and our nation. The governor thanked everyone who showed up and asked all Nevadans to keep praying for the state.
“We specifically thank God for those who defend our freedoms and ask for peace throughout our state, nation, and world,” Lombardo stated in the official proclamation.
This year marks the 74th observance of the National Day of Prayer. The theme for 2025 is “POUR OUT TO THE GOD OF HOPE AND BE FILLED” based on Romans 15:13.
Today, I’m honored to officially proclaim May 1st as a Day of Prayer in Nevada.
I’m grateful for all of those who gathered in Carson City to pray for our state, and I humbly ask for your continued prayer for Nevada and our nation. pic.twitter.com/8u0ThkxsnE
— Governor Joe Lombardo (@JosephMLombardo) May 1, 2025
Why It Matters to Conservatives
For many conservatives, this proclamation represents several key values worth protecting.
First, it upholds our country’s religious heritage. The proclamation points out that prayer has been part of America since its founding. When government acknowledges this history, it honors the traditions that helped shape our nation.
Second, it respects the Constitution’s protection of religious freedom. Governor Lombardo’s proclamation mentions that Nevada’s Constitution guarantees “the free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession and worship, without discrimination or preference.” This aligns with conservative beliefs in limited government that protects rather than restricts religious expression.
Third, it creates space for communities to gather around shared values. In a time when many feel divided, prayer offers a chance to unite in hopes for peace and prosperity.
A Rich History of Prayer in America
The National Day of Prayer has deep roots in American history. The first call to prayer came in 1775, when the Continental Congress asked the colonies to pray for wisdom in forming a nation. During those early days of our country, prayer played a central role in guiding our founding fathers.
The Continental Congress issued a proclamation recommending “a day of publick humiliation, fasting, and prayer” to be observed by the “English Colonies” on July 20, 1775. John Adams noted that millions would “be upon their knees at once before their great Creator, imploring His forgiveness and blessing” on that day.
This tradition continued during the Revolutionary War. As thousands gathered in prayer in places of worship and encampments throughout the new land, the colonists found a new spirit of unity and resolve through this expression of public faith.
Many years later, President Lincoln proclaimed a day of “humiliation, fasting, and prayer” in 1863 during the darkness of the Civil War. But it wasn’t until 1952 that Congress established the National Day of Prayer as an annual event through a joint resolution signed into law by President Truman.
In 1988, the law was amended and signed by President Reagan, permanently setting the day as the first Thursday of every May. Today, this tradition continues with each president signing a yearly proclamation encouraging Americans to pray for our nation.
Looking Ahead
The National Day of Prayer continues to have strong support across America. According to a Pew Research study from 2021, about 55% of Americans say they pray daily, showing prayer remains important to many citizens.
Governor Lombardo’s proclamation serves as a reminder that despite changing times, many Americans still value the role of faith in public life. For conservatives who believe government should recognize but not restrict religious expression, this tradition represents an important balance worth preserving.
This article was written with the assistance of AI. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
