Individuals gathered on a hill overlooking the borough of Tamaqua on Thursday morning, surrounded by blue skies, sunshine and a calming breeze.

The spot outside Trinity United Church of Christ seemed the perfect place for the Tamaqua Ministerial Association to observe the National Day of Prayer.

“I love the cooperation we have between our churches in town,” said Trinity’s Pastor Darryl Kensinger. “Certainly it is good to gather together and pray together.”

The observance is held across the nation each year on the first Thursday of May and invites participation from folks of all faiths.

In Tamaqua, the event brought pastors from four churches who prayed for government, media, business, education, church and family.

Attendees were also invited to offer prayers of their own during the informal event.

“I don’t have to remind you, corporate prayer - praying together - helps keep us connected,” Kensinger said. “Individual prayer keeps us connected to God.”

Kensinger was first to speak, and offered up prayers for local, state and federal government.

Even though there are differences in political parties and beliefs, he asked God to help move the country in the right direction.

Rick Clemson, pastor of the American Primitive Methodist Church in Tamaqua, prayed for military personnel. Although many have lost their lives in conflicts or battles, and many others have been injured or disabled, Clemson asked that individuals still have the courage and bravery to serve.

“Please keep them safe,” Clemson prayed.

He also prayed for members of the media and asked God to guide them in presenting the truth.

Pastor Cindy White of Zion Lutheran Church, Tamaqua, offered prayers for businesses.

“We would ask for hope and healing, especially for our small businesses and especially those involved in our basic needs of food, shelter and clothing,” White said.

She also prayed for educators, whose jobs she said can be quite difficult.

“We are amazed and delighted that many of them stay in it for many years,” White said.

Pastor Kevin Roberts of Bethany Evangelical Congregational Church in Tamaqua, offered prayers for churches.

“I pray for an outpouring of your spirit,” he said.

Roberts also prayed for families, noting that so many are busy with work, school and activities.

“They’re missing out on what they need to do - and that is to spend time with each other,” he said.

The Rev. Robert Finlan, pastor of St. John XXIII in Tamaqua, was unable to attend due to the recent death of his father.