National Day of Prayer is next week and county officials are inviting residents to join them as they celebrate the occasion.

In observance of the 57th National Day of Prayer, a program will be held from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, May 1 in Courtroom C of the Currituck Judicial Center.

At a Board of Commissioners' meeting Monday, resident David Sawyer invited the public to join officials in celebrating National Day of Prayer. Commission chairman Barry Nelms marked the occasion by reading a proclamation recognizing the annual event.

The program will feature local leaders, including Currituck Sheriff Susan Johnson, who will pray for local and national government leaders, and the Rev. Dennis Crehan, who will pray for the churches.

Currituck County Schools Superintendent Mike Warren will say a prayer for the safety of school personnel and students. Don Heaton, of Grandy Drug Care, will pray for businesses, and Holly Loyer will pray for truth in the media. She also will pray that Hollywood and sport celebrities be worthy of respect and admiration. Stephanie Bradley will pray for the sanctity of marriage and for the protection of children.

The county's proclamation also emphasizes the need for citizens to pray for the country's military men and women. The Rev. Randy Johnson, a retired member of the U.S. Air Force, will pray for the protection of the armed forces and their families.

Dr. Ravi Zacharias will conclude the program by delivering the 2008 Prayer for Our Nation.