Local Church Leaders, Residents Gather on National Prayer Day

Taking part in a program being observed across the country, leaders from many church denominations throughout Menifee said prayers of support in front of the Veterans Memorial at Wheatfield Park today.

Observing the National Day of Prayer, pastors led prayers for leaders of every branch of government, from the White House down to local city leaders, as well as local business owners. About 50 people gathered under a canopy on a hot, windy day in a show of support of the prayers.

David Finch, manager of Miller-Jones Mortuary and a chaplain with the Riverside County Sheriffs Department, served as chairman of the event and introduced the speakers.

"It's important we do this for three reasons," Finch said. "First, because we can still pray publicly. People died so we could have that freedom. Second, because the Bible commands us to pray.

"Third, because we believe we will get an answer. We do not believe our creator left us here without listening to and caring for us."

Deputy mayor Wallace Edgerton, representing Mayor Scott Mann and the rest of the city council, briefly addressed the audience before prayers were offered. Other council members attended another prayer event across town earlier in the day.