The National Day of Prayer is a part of the American heritage. Since the first call to prayer in 1775, when the Continental Congress asked the colonies to pray for wisdom in forming a nation, the call to prayer has continued through our history, including President Lincoln's proclamation of a day of "humiliation, fasting, and prayer" in 1863. In 1952, a joint resolution by Congress, signed by President Truman, declared an annual, national day of prayer. In 1988, the law was amended and signed by President Reagan, permanently setting the day as the first Thursday of every May. Each year, the president signs a proclamation, encouraging all Americans to pray on this day.

1775 - The first Continental Congress called for a National Day of Prayer.

1863 - Abraham Lincoln called for such a day.

1952 - Congress established National Day of Prayer as an annual event by a joint resolution, signed into law by President Truman.

1988 - The law was amended and signed by President Reagan, designating the National Day of Prayer as the first Thursday in May.

May 1, 2008 is National Day of Prayer this year