Thursday afternoon Meridian residents, pastors, and leaders came together for a local National Day of Prayer ceremony.

Dorothy Lloyd, who was the coordinator for the event this year, said they have had amazing moments with God in past years.

“This year it may be overcast, but we’re still here, and God is still blessing,” Lloyd said. “People are concerned about our city, and people have come out to pray, and that is the reason we are here.”

Everyone had their individual reasons to come and pray, but for many, they have been looking at the nation, and its future leadership.

“Our nation needs this so bad. We are in such

a time of turmoil, and indecision. We really need to be praying for our nation,” said Sarita Rainey, who attended the ceremony.

“I’m praying for our country,” said John Flowers, another ceremony participant. ” Because of the times we live in, prayer is very important, and significant. Prayer changes people, and people change things.”

“We’re here because we want to be a part of this to pray that our nation goes back to the truth of the Christian faith,” said Rev. Jack Giles of Church of the Way.

Throughout the event, there were specific prayers given. Prayers for U.S. soldiers, pastors, and the local media.

The last prayer of the event was for unity of all Christians.

“Lord, you never said that You were going to build a white church and a black church,” Rev. Bryan Culpepper said. “You said, ‘I’m going to build my church. Father, we ask You to help us tear the walls down.”