A moment of prayer was shared May 2 between the California Ministerial Alliance and members of Moniteau County law enforcement at the National Day of Prayer.
The gathering met just outside of the Moniteau County Courthouse to give thanks and support for keeping the county safe and running smoothly.
Pastor Eugene Mueller of United Methodist Church led the invocation with words of tribute from Frank Hensley to follow. Hensley is the pastor for New Life Christian Center.
"We pastors of California enjoy praying for you every year, all year," Hensley said to the county officials. "Every day, we offer you our support and pray for you as you put your lives on the line for us all."
To remind officials of their dedication, Pastor Evandro Kopper of St. Paul's Lutheran Church read the preamble to the Constitution. The second sentence of the Declaration of Independence was then lifted up by Brother Joe Banderman of First Baptist Church.
"In addition to our county officials and law enforcement, we pray here under Old Glory and remember our soldiers and the 300 million plus Americans," Hensley said.
Another entity important to the CMA that was honored through prayer was the California school system. A specific cause has inspired further action by California's religious leaders.
"We have made a goal to raise $5,000 for Rachel's Challenge," Hensley said. "This is a challenge that needs to be revived and the school district agrees."
Hensley said Rachel's Challenge works to remind students that one kind act can make an enormous difference. Rachel Scott, the namesake for the challenge, was the first victim of the Columbine school shootings.
The prayer event occurred over the lunch hour, and a meal was provided by Chick-fil-A restaurant.