Community members celebrating the 74th Annual National Day of Prayer in Cape Girardeau

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — Community members celebrated the 74th Annual National Day of Prayer with music and prayers at Ivers Square.

The event began with a cross.

Men from Indiana and Kentucky traveled to the area to carry a 9-foot wooden cross from Capaha Park to Ivers Square.

One of the men, James Rowe, said the cross speaks for itself when they take it out.

“It’s a very humbling experience,” he said, “and it brings just a flood of emotions.”

Rowe said the true joy came from inviting people along the walk to join them.

“It’s a blessing to be here in Cape Girardeau,” he said, “to pray for our nation and lift up things, and see things change in our country.”

Community member David Clark said he came out to the service with concerns about the current condition of the United States and the world.

“I believe it was the best one I’ve ever been to,” he said. “Actually, the prayers seem to be very on spot.”

His takeaway was the importance of making a mark on the community.

“Rather than just going to church and being in our comfort zone, we’ve got an opportunity to make a difference and help people overcome the obstacles in their life,” he said.

Prayers for the country and local communities were given during the event. Locals also prayed for the family in Scott City that lost a mother and child in a fire.