Rochester National Day of Prayer Events will Include Morning and Evening Sessions This Year

Bishop Dr. David J. Singleton (front) started the National Day of Prayer initiative in Rochester, NY.

When Rev. David Singleton started the National Day of Prayer initiative in Rochester, NY his vision was simple, to see people come together and pray.

Singleton says that vision has been achieved but there is a lot more to be done.

Now in his 11th year leading the prayer charge every year on the first Thursday in May, Singleton says this year will be different. He and his committee held a press conference, Thursday, announcing the upcoming events.

“Last year God gave me a download and it was some things I’ve never considered before,” he said. “This year it’s regional and we’re reaching out to the northeast quadrant of the nation, including Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire… 13 states in total.”

“We also have a number of elected and appointed officials who will be a part of the event this year.”

The prayer event this year will be on Thursday, May 4th and will be held in two sessions. One in the morning and one in the evening.

The morning session will be held downtown Rochester in front of City Hall, 30 Church Street, at 10:30am and will consist of prayer and worship. After which there will be a human chain formed around City Hall and the County Building.

“Main Street will close this year for seventeen minutes,” Singleton said. “During that time we will be praying in the prayer chain for our city and nation.”

Evening session starts at 6pm and will be held at the Rochester Community Sports Complex, 460 Oak Street. The gates will open at 4pm, with food vendors and other business vendors available.

Organizers say there will be free parking and free shuttles offered to the parking sites.

“There will be a 200 member choir performing, along with some great local talent and a classical pianist will also be performing,” said Singleton.

“The lead objective is to raise the God-consciousness… I want folks to think about God. I have a firm conviction that when folks are thinking about God they are less likely to do some things that they otherwise might do if they weren’t thinking about God. “

“I believe people will be nicer to each-other when they are thinking about God,” he said. “One will not commit a murder, or some other act that might be considered violent or off-centered when they are thinking about God.”

For more information or to volunteer please visit facebook.com/RegionalNDOP2023 or call 585-622-4551