The National Day of Prayer observance at Washington’s City Hall didn’t come close to attracting as many people as one of the city’s downtown festival draws.

That’s a shame. Hopefully, a future National Day of Prayer observance will attract such a crowd.

Those who took the time to participate in the local National Day of Prayer observance, either by leading attendees in prayer or praying along with those who made public prayers, were blessed by meaningful prayers and insightful reasons for having the National Day of Prayer.

It’s noteworthy that two local elected officials were public participants in the 30 minutes of prayer Thursday. Washington Mayor Archie Jennings and Jerry Langley, a pastor and chairman of the Beaufort County Board of Commissioners, offered remarks and prayer that deserve recognition.

“I can tell you as a leader that I’ve never felt more supported than when I’m prayed for by friend, foe, or even better, someone I’ve never met before. … So, it’s my prayer that God will place among us legions of prayer warriors like yourselves who, fortified with the spirit and unity of this National Day of Prayer, will make every day a worldwide day of prayer,” said during his remarks of welcome.

“Now, Father, I stand in the gap for all elected officials, realizing, Oh God, that you have placed us in positions responsibility. That responsibility requires us to have a close, personal relationship with you,’” Langley prayed. “Father, we have to realize that when we make decisions, we impact the lives of your people. So, Father, I pray in the names of Jesus that you will show us the right way. Let us agree and disagree, but to do so in love. … Father, help us to seek your face in decision-making. … Father, let us be leaders by example, not in lip service.”

Amen, and amen.