These activities will help kids celebrate National Day of Prayer by taking prayer to heart.

Idea #1: National Day of Prayer Roots

Share about the origins of National Day of Prayer in the United States. You could use the summary below or visit the official website for National Day of Prayer.

In 1952, President Harry S. Truman signed a Joint Resolution of Congress establishing an annual National Day of Prayer. The government amended the law in 1988 and President Ronald Reagan signed it, permanently setting the day as the first Thursday in May. This call to prayer is referred to as “A Presidential Proclamation of Prayer.”

After you share the history of National Day of Prayer, talk about this:

• What about a specific day to pray feels special to you?
• How can you show that prayer is important every day?

Idea #2: Prayer-Starters

Here are some topics to pray over on National Day of Prayer:

• Pray for your mayor and city council members who help make your city a good place to live.
• Walk or drive through town to discover things you can praise God for.
• Draw a picture of the White House. Pray for the president, his family, and others who work there.
• Visit your county government center or city hall. Write a prayer for a public official and then send it to that person in the mail.

After you’ve chosen one or two, talk about this:

• What are some things you could do to remember to pray for these people and things all the time?
• Why do you think it’s important to pray for our city, country, and leaders?
• What other people or things do you think are also important for us to pray for?

Idea #3: Prayer and Care Package

Have each child send a National Day of Prayer care package filled with goodies to a family in the armed forces. Have children list the things they’re praying for them, such as for physical protection as they defend freedom around the world and for comfort as they’re separated from family and friends.

Try including a self-addressed stamped envelope for them to return prayer requests, a picture of the child’s family, a poem or Bible verse, a music tape or devotional book, paper and pens, stamps, gum, or mints. Enclose a thank you note telling them how much you appreciate them.

Many churches maintain a list of military families from their fellowship who serve in other countries. Or to find a military family, contact the public information officer at a military base near you.

---

Are you unsure where to start when it comes to talking to kids about prayer? Check out Group’s Friends With God: Discover How to Pray. This fun book shows kids just how easy it is to talk with God—anytime, anywhere, and in so many ways. And if you’re looking for more children’s ministry ideas, check out these posts!