On May 1, 2025, the United States observes the National Day of Prayer, a tradition rooted in both history and faith. With this year’s theme drawn from Romans 15:13, believers across the nation are called to lift America before God with the hope of national repentance,renewal, and revival. Intercessors for America (IFA), founded in 1973, leads this charge with nationwide events, new prayer resources, and a broadcast from Washington, D.C. President Trump has also embraced this spiritual moment with prayer and worship in the White House. As Americans reflect on God’s providence and pray for their leaders, the National Day of Prayer remains a solemn yet hopeful call to both national repentance and spiritual revival.

Reviving a Sacred Tradition: History of the National Day of Prayer

The National Day of Prayer was formally established in 1952 under President Harry S. Truman, though the call for national repentance and prayer has far older roots. In 1775, the Continental Congress urged the colonies to pray for wisdom as they moved toward independence. But it was not until evangelist Billy Graham petitioned Congress in the early 1950s that the day was officially set aside. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan amended the law, fixing the observance on the first Thursday of May. Since then, every U.S. president has issued a proclamation encouraging Americans to unite in prayer on this day.

This year’s theme, chosen by the National Day of Prayer Task Force, is taken from Romans 15:13: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that you will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

With thousands of gatherings planned nationwide—in churches, city halls, parks, and homes—the faithful will join in prayer for government leaders, families, schools, and national renewal. Notably, Ukraine became the second country to adopt a National Day of Prayer, reflecting growing global alignment in spiritual values.

Intercessors for America: A Lifeline of National Intercession

Founded in 1973 by Derek Prince and a group of believers committed to national transformation through prayer, Intercessors for America has become a leading spiritual force in political and cultural intercession. Their efforts center on praying for elected officials, influencing policy through intercession, and mobilizing believers to action through live broadcasts, newsletters, and digital tools.

IFA President and CEO Dave Kubal now serves on the board of the National Day of Prayer Task Force, and under his leadership, IFA is spearheading activities for May 1, 2025. With a deep sense of urgency, IFA has launched several initiatives to equip the faithful.

They have released a new prayer guide titled Prayers of Protection Over President Trump & Administration Officials, aimed at uniting intercessors to cover the president and his team amid continued threats and opposition.

In anticipation of the National Day of Prayer, they are also preparing to release Dave Kubal’s latest book, Impacting Generations: How Ordinary People Can Influence the Future of Nations. Meanwhile, Kris Kubal will lead a special live prayer event from Washington, D.C., inviting believers to join in real-time intercession at 12 PM ET.

To stay connected with IFA, visit their Facebook page, watch live on IFA YouTube, or follow the National Day of Prayer Instagram.

A Sacred Moment in Troubled Times: Prayer in the White House

As the nation steps into the first National Day of Prayer of President Trump’s second term, many believers see a divine shift. Last year, Easter coincided with controversial White House acknowledgments, but this year began with worship and scripture. President Trump has credited God with sparing his life following two assassination attempts and marked the conclusion of his first 100 days in office with a special prayer gathering in the White House.

For supporters, this public devotion marks a return to God-centered leadership. Trump’s repeated emphasis on faith and divine protection resonates with millions who feel called to intercede not only for their leader but for the future of their country.

Conclusion: A Nation on Its Knees, United by the Constitution and Faith

As America gathers for the 2025 National Day of Prayer, the call is not just to participate, but to believe. In the words of President Abraham Lincoln, spoken in 1863 during the height of the Civil War: “It is the duty of nations as well as of men to own their dependence upon the overruling power of God… and to recognize the sublime truth, announced in the Holy Scriptures and proven by all history, that those nations only are blessed whose God is the Lord.”

In defending our borders, defending the unborn, protecting jobs, and resisting evil, this year’s observance invites us to return to the divine foundations that uphold our liberties. The Constitution remains the litmus test for our national values—but it is only through prayer that we will see its promise fulfilled.

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