The Territory’s leaders, especially those in Government, churches, businesses and the community are being called upon to participate in the 19th BVI National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 7.

 Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE made the call and is encouraging all men and women to collectively pray for God’s continued protection for the people and Territory. 

Premier Smith said, “BVI has long been a praying community and this is a day where christians come together in one voice to give thanks and petition the blessings of God on behalf of our Virgin Islands.”

The Premier added, “The Government recognises that we cannot do it alone, and therefore welcomes the opportunity to partner with the BVI Interdenominational Day of Prayer Committee, church leaders and the community.”

Premier Smith said that the entire Virgin Islands must continue to unite in the mighty name of Jesus and fast and pray on behalf of the people, so that God would indeed heal the Territory.

He stated, “As a leader of this Territory, I pray that God protect our families, our youth, and our Territory from natural and manmade disasters. I pray that He arrests any problems threatening and destroying the fabric of our society.”

The Government is encouraging Territory-wide participation in the collective prayers that will be held throughout the day. On Tortola, there will be an early morning prayer meeting from 5:00 to 6:00 a.m. at the Festival Grounds opposite the A.O. Shirley Recreation grounds on Wickhams Cay I.         

Additionally, there will be a midday service from noon to 1:00 p.m. in the Noel Lloyd Park; and an open air worship service from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Festival Grounds.  Morning prayer meetings and evening crusades will also be held on the sister islands. The community can tune in to live broadcasts on local radio and television stations throughout the day.

The history of the Virgin Islands is built on the prayers of men and women who earnestly went throughout the community, and held prayer meetings to ensure spiritual protection on this Territory and its people.