"Our theme this year is 'Love One Another,'" said The Rev. Norris Lindsey.

CANTON Douglas Ramsey said he was sitting inside a cell in the Richmond County Correctional Center the first time he read about Canton's National Day of Prayer.

Ramsey vowed he would get out someday and take part.

Today, Ramsey is a pastor and missionary and leader of the National Day of Prayer, Stark County, which will host its 15th annual observance from April 28 to May 3, featuring a prayer service on the Courthouse Square at noon May 2.

Last year's gathering drew about 50 people. Though rain may have kept some away, overall attendance in recent years hasn't been reflective of a community that has more than 300 churches.

Local organizers hope to change that. The Rev. Norris Lindsey, local chair, said his group is mailing prayer cards to local churches, seeking both spiritual and monetary support.

"Our theme this year is 'Love One Another,'" he said.

"The spirit of the vision is we would have willing hearts and donations from organizations, churches and businesses," said the Rev. Darleen Moss. "We would like all churches to participate. We need prayer for our city."

"Change is coming"



Lindsey said the group's prayer breakfast in February drew a good crowd, but many don't seem to want to follow through.

"When it comes time to do the legwork and be available, we find it very hard. It's perplexing to me," he said.

"America needs a life change," said James Moraghan, a committee member who attends Woodlawn Church in Jackson Township. "I believe everyone should step up to what Christ has called us to do."

The Rev. Michael Kelley, associate pastor at Trinity Gospel Temple, said some may be unable to attend because of work, but he believes people are beginning to realize the community must unite.

Kelley said unity is commonly discussed when area pastors get together.

"I think this year is going to be better. The mindset in a lot of churches is changing," he said. "We need to unite. There's only one Body of Christ. It may take a few years, but I believe change is coming."

Organizers said the National Day of Prayer is not limited to any certain church but acknowledged the local observance essentially is Christian.

"We're not trying to exclude anybody," Norris said.

As the number of non-affiliated Americans rises, churches, particularly mainline denominations, have been struggling. Norris said churches are not doing enough to help those living in the margins. He cited the Community Drop-In Center in southeast Canton as a ministry that consistently serves the needy.

"We must go out and do some footwork," he said. "There has to be a commitment to go out and stay out in the neighborhoods. Even if it means we have to do Bible studies in homes. You have to build that trust."

Relevance, transparency

Kelly said churches must offer people more than traditions.

"I have four children, three of whom are millennials," Kelley said. "My youngest, who is a worship leader at Trinity talks about relevance and transparency. They're tired of fake religion. They want a real experience."

Kelley noted that three churches have merged with Trinity Gospel Temple in recent years.

"Honestly, I believe the walls will come down," he said. "Sunday isn't going to be the event anymore. You need something that's going to bring change and transformation in people's lives."

Ramsey said he's grateful to the faithful volunteers who have participated in the week-long observance, which includes a kickoff service on April 28, a Bible-reading marathon, the prayer event and a worship concert on May 3.

"In all kinds of weather," he smiled.

Ramsey, who attends Hope Outreach, noted that throughout history, many churches began in the outdoors, often under a tent.

"It's a call for people to come from behind their four walls into the open air," he said. "It's like mission work."

Volunteers are still needed. To learn more, contact Kelley at 330-257-9523, or visit the National Day of Prayer Stark County Facebook page.

Prayer/pledge cards and donations may be sent to: National Day of Prayer Stark County, c/o Gospel Temple Christian Fellowship, 2147 Fifth St. NE, Canton, OH, 44704.

Reach Charita at 330-580-8313 or charita.goshay@cantonrep.com

On Twitter: @cgoshayREP