Scott County government leaders take part in day of prayer service

SIKESTON, Mo. -- More than 50 people showed up for the National Day of Prayer service held at the Scott County Courthouse on Thursday morning, the Sikeston Standard Democrat reported.

"We all know why we're here today," said Mark Hensley, county collector, who led the service. He said it is "so great" to live in a country where citizens have so many freedoms, such as prayer.

However, Hensley did note that the Day of Prayer has been called into question, as last week a federal judge declared the day unconstitutional. "But I think we should pray for our country every day," he said.

As county employees and others gathered in front of the courthouse, Benton resident Daniel Stevens led the group in saying the pledge of allegiance.

Also, Ed Carter, pastor of the Oran First Baptist Church, and Brian Flanigan, pastor of the Victory Life Church in Oran, made comments before the group joined hands in prayer.

Carter encouraged the crowd to "continue your faith. No matter what the world may say about prayer and God, we still need them."

Flanigan noted that although the National Day of Prayer was not enacted until 1952, the need to pray comes daily, and is something lawmakers have done since the country was founded.

"We've been praying since long before then," said Flanigan, and he said the prayer will continue, even if the day's unconstitutionality is upheld.