The theme for the fifth annual Fountain Hills National Day of Prayer will be “Wake Up America” on Thursday, May 5, at the Fountain Park amphitheater.

The scripture is Isaiah 58:1a, “'Shout it aloud, do not hold back, raise your voice like a trumpet.”

The group reports to the Fountain Hills Christian Ministerial Association.

Before the program, complimentary hotdogs, beverages and desserts will be served from 5 to 5:45 p.m. in the park.

The NDOP committee encourages individuals to join together in a monthly common prayer focus. The focus for March is the family.

The committee issued the following comments:

“In a world of turmoil and uncertainty, it is important that our churches defend the value of the family and model the priority of the family.

“Family is the first learning place of an individual. Parents are the most important teachers a child will have. Starting from childhood until old age, the family is the source of guidance, care, and encouragement.

“Ask God to give parents strength and patient wisdom as they bring up their children. Help teach families to love and respect each other. Show them how to support and encourage each other.

“Thank you for the work you do to give young persons strength to hold their faith in God as they meet life's challenges.

“Pray for those who live alone that they will find fulfillment in loving God and their neighbors.

“The elderly are the guardians of our traditions and memories. They are the link to different generations. Let us care for, spend time with, and learn from them.”

Prayer for the family

Heavenly Father, please shine your light upon our families.

We ask you to strengthen the relationship between parents and children and return us to

the biblical and family values that are pleasing to you.

Give both parents and children the strength, wisdom and guidance needed to overcome

the difficulties that we deal with daily.

Protect us and guide us with all problems that we may encounter in the future.

Grant our family forgiveness for any sins we have committed.

May the love that binds us only grow stronger as we fulfill the destiny you have laid out for us.

We love you and ask your blessings upon our family and upon all the families in our

nation and in the world.

In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.