The Ohio State community set aside race, age, gender and cultural diversity to celebrate yesterday’s National Day of Prayer.
“Today is a day when we can reflect on God’s goodness,” said Jamal Luke, a junior in sports and leisure studies and a member of the OSU football team.
Luke was joined by students, faculty and staff of all denominations as they prayed for the world, government, family and community.
“This is a time for everyone to come together and pray together,” said Jason Huang, a junior in electrical engineering.
Ulich Heinz, a physics professor, led a prayer for people all over the world.
“Life is not about us or national security, but about God,” Heinz said.
A prayer was led by Paul Robinson, a music professor, asking for courage and strength for government leaders.
Prayers were said giving thanks for the community and seeking help for those who need it.
The group prayed for unity among religious groups on campus, that they may all come together with God as their common link.
“God is merciful, faithful and just,” Luke said. “Every opportunity I have I just want to glorify God.”
Barbara Pyle, a staff member in the College of Optometry, prayed for the administrators at Ohio State, requesting guidance and wisdom.
Student participants led a prayer for family, saying it is hard to get caught up in what is going on and forget about family.
The event, held at the Ohio Union lounge yesterday, was organized by a group of faculty and staff members from the School of Music. The group also provided funding for the event.
Students also gathered in front of Bricker Hall to celebrate the day with songs and prayer.
A small group met at the flagpole to sing worship songs and share their prayers with fellow students.
“We come together to be one voice,” said Mike Yeh, a graduate student in higher education and student affairs.
The group normally meets the first Friday of every month, but met yesterday instead to observe the National Day of Prayer.
The first Thursday of May was declared the National Day of Prayer by Congress in 1952.
