Cuba Ministerial Alliance hosted a gathering on May 7 to mark the 75th Annual National Day of Prayer at the Cuba Free Will Baptist Church.

Several ministers and local officials were able to attend as they offered prayers.

The 2026 theme was based on First Chronicles 16:24, “Glorify God among the nations, seeking Him in all generations.” Rev. Don Martin, pastor at Cuba Free Will Baptist Church, opened the ceremony by reading a proclamation by Missouri Governor Mike Kehoe.

“Whereas throughout the history of the United States of America, prayers have been lifted up, seeking the Lord in every generation for direction, protection and provision, so that God would be glorified and bless America, resulting in America being filled with His glory, His grace and His goodness, as he has answered our prayers for over 250 years,” Martin read.

Rev. Tommy Miller, pastor at Deer Creek Church, took the stand to say a prayer for medical and first responders.

“Lord, we thank you for those that have been called to serve as doctors and nurses, and fire and rescue and EMS,” Miller said. “Lord, we just continue to pray that as they step out onto the front lines, Lord, as they serve in those mighty, powerful ways, Lord, that you would protect them, Lord, that you would give them safety.”

Cuba Police Chief Doug Shelton said a prayer for law enforcement.

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the children of God — Matthew 5:9,” Shelton said. “We come before you with humble hearts, lifting up the brave men and women who serve as police officers in our communities. We thank you for the willingness to step into danger.”

Rev. Chris Sheridan, pastor of Amazing Grace Church, said a prayer for churches and family.

“We thank you, Lord, that you sustain by your grace, your faithful providence over all people, churches, ministries and families in our county,” Sheridan prayed.

Next, Dr. Scott Davidson, Crawford R-2 Superintendent, led a prayer for education.

“Please watch over all our school boards and give them the dividing guidance to address the situations that come up and be with all of our administrators and our teaching staff and support staff that work with kids every day and make a difference in their lives,” Davidson said.

Rev. Ed Fields, of the Cuba Free Will Baptist Church, said a prayer for the government.

“Heavenly Father, we ask for a spirit of discernment for our elected leaders in government, in our city, in our state, in our county, in our national leaders,” Fields prayed.

The Prayer for Military was led by Crawford County Sheriff and former U.S. Marine Darin Layman.

“Help us seek your wisdom above all else. We pray for those currently serving both here at home and abroad,” Layman said. “Lord, surround them with your protection. Surround them with courage. Surround them with peace.”

Rev. Terry Hogan, pastor at Calvary Assembly of God, said the prayer for businesses.

“I wish above all things, that thou mayest prosper,” Hogan said. “Father, we know you want us, Lord, to prosper.”

The prayer for the sanctity of life was given by Lynne Hewkin, director of the Lifeline Pregnancy Care Center.

“I looked up in prayer to you, Father, every life, born and unborn, all in every life and every season, from the first letter to the final breath, I pray for pro abundant life,” Hewkin said.

Rev. Todd Holman, pastor of the United Methodist Churches in Bourbon and Cuba, led the prayer for community and civic organizations.

“Give them clarity of mind and courage to do what is right and hearts that listen to the needs of their neighbors,” Holman said.

Martin closed out the gathering with some final remarks.

“And so let me encourage yo to continue to pray for this great nation on a regular basis, and for each other and for anything,” Martin said.