Chaplain (Cpt.) Mustapha RahoUchen gives the prayer for the nation during the National Day of Prayer luncheon at the NCO Club, May 6.

Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Rodie Lamb gives the welcome and invocation during the National Day of Prayer luncheon at the NCO Club, May 6.

Fort Jackson observed the National Day of Prayer May 6 by hosting a luncheon at the NCO Club.

The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May, inviting people of all faiths to pray for the nation. It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman.

Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Rodie Lamb opened the luncheon with the invocation.

“Today we have come together to celebrate the power of prayer throughout our nation’s history,” Lamb said. “Americans have always looked to God for hope, in good times, in a challenging time, and today it is no different. Prayer will always be important.”

Prayers were then given by four different chaplains for the government, health and safety, military personnel and lastly the nation. Guests were invited to pray in their own tradition.

Lunch was served, and Lamb introduced the speaker, Chaplain (Col.) Jimmy Nichols, the Fort Jackson Garrison chaplain.

Nichols spoke about the Bible story of Samson, and how God gave him strength to accomplish the purpose for his life. “And He is also going to give you what you need in your life to accomplish His will in your life as well,” he said.