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By MaryHelen Swanson
 North Branch Mayor Gloria Karsky opened her prayer breakfast at the Legion Hall this morning by making note of the vision and value statement of the National Day of Prayer.
Rev. Dan Hall, the chaplain to the Minnesota Legislature, spoke to the early morning prayer group at the Mayor’s breakfast today in North Branch; today is National Day of Prayer.
It reads as follows:
“In accordance with Biblical truth, the National Day of Prayer Task Force seeks to:
• Foster unity within the Christian Church
• Protect America’s Constitutional freedoms to gather, worship, pray and speak freely.
• Publicize and preserve America’s Christian heritage
• Encourage and emphasize prayer, regardless of current issues and positions
• Respect all people, regardless of denomination or creed
• Be wise stewards of God’s resources and provision
• Glorify the Lord in word and deed
“Prayer is our strength and prayer is our shield,” Mayor Karsky said.
Pastor Neil Bonkoski led the prayer before breakfast.
After the group ate, the mayor introduced Chaplain Dan Hall from the Minnesota Legislature.
The mayor said Hall was noted for his honesty and straightforwardness.
As he spoke, Rev. Hall reminded everyone that gatherings like the breakfast are booster shots to get people to pray every day.
He said the goals of a community have to start with the beliefs of the community.
 Rev. Hall said we do not pray because we are great, but because of the great needs of our nation.
He referenced Bible passages from 1st Timothy and 2nd Chronicles.
The Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast was livened by the singing of familar hymns of faith. Over 70 people attended the event this mornng.
“We humble ourselves,” he said, “by constantly giving glory to God.”
He admonished the people sitting at the tables - from government officials, to school officials, business people and citizens of the community - to “be who you are - it’s OK.”
Bringing your salt and light to your community is your most important asset, he said.
He read the Governor’s proclamation of National Day of Prayer. He also made note of the beginning of the Constitution of the State of Minnesota which reads, “We, the people of the state of Minnesota, grateful to God for our civil and religious liberty, and desiring to perpetuate its blessings and secure the same to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution.”
Minnesota’s Constitution was adopted October 13, 1857.
At each table lists were made by attendees, of the prayer needs of and for the communities.
Among many things, prayers were encouraged for families, children, those serving in war, the schools, harmony in neighborhoods, for the financial needs of families, the local businesses, leaders and peace among the people.
There will also be a prayer gathering tonight at 7 p.m. at the NB library. All are invited.
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