The government is urging citizens and residents to participate in Thursday’s National Day of Prayer, to collectively seek God’s divine intervention, guidance and blessings on the twin island state amidst an increase in violent crime.
An official flyer states that businesses, banks, shops, and public offices will close at 12 noon on this day. Information Minister Melford Nicholas confirmed to Observer that private companies that stay open beyond that will be required to pay staff accompanying holiday pay.
This half public holiday will allow members of the public to participate in the religious events which include a march through St John’s departing at 1.30pm.
Chairman of the Ecclesiastical Commission, Reverend Dr Emanuel Elizee, speaking at a recent crime forum, shared further details.
“The intention is to begin early in the morning. We have decided to use two or three churches within each parish to include Barbuda, where there will be satellite stations where people will be able to pray during the course of the day,” he said.
“We will be connecting with the pastors of the churches we deem necessary. So there will be prayer going through from 6am until 12 noon in these various areas. In addition to that, we intend to engage the media houses … and implore upon them that we make the day focused, so the programmes, the music, all that which pertains to lifting our souls to God.”
Reverend Elizee continued, “At about 1.30pm, we will be moving off at the West Bus Station, we’re taking a march to the Antigua Recreation Grounds (ARG), and making a march of witnesses during that passage, and then when we get to the ARG, we will have another series of prayer, where we will have different pastors praying for the nation as well.
“Immediately following that there will be a mini-concert, so we can engage all young people in word and song.”
The event is being organised by the Ecclesiastical Commission, and will involve various Christian denominations, government representatives, and other partners.
