Prayers Unite Communities in Naples and Fort Myers as Faithful Rally for the Nation

On May 1, Southwest Florida celebrated the National Day of Prayer with optimism and satisfaction through gatherings in Naples and Fort Myers.

At the 2025 Southwest Florida Community Prayer Breakfast held at Hammond Stadium within the Lee Health Sports Complex in Fort Myers, actor Kirk Cameron shared a message of faith and determination through his keynote speech.

During their time in Naples, the participants concluded the day with an evening ceremony held at the Naples High School football field. The event featured prayers led by both local religious leaders and elected officials, as well as musical performances for everyone to enjoy.

This year’s Day of Prayer had as its theme “Pour Out Your Heart to the God of Hope and Find Fulfillment!”

The design draws inspiration from the Romans 15:13 verse: "May the God of hope fill you with every kind of joy and peace as you trust in Him, leading to an abundance of hope through the strength of the Holy Spirit."

There is a revitalizing sea breeze of hope, triumph, positivity, and bravery currently sweeping across our nation," Cameron stated. "As members of the 'community of belief,' we have support from above and can achieve significant advancements as the frontline forces within God's compassionate army—our community of faith—to proceed with honesty, kindness, and elegance. We must seize this chance collectively.

Cameron, known for his role as Mike Seaver in the 1980s TV show "Growing Pains," has subsequently focused on producing content related to faith and family. This includes involvement with movies like "Left Behind" and "Fireproof," documentaries such as "Monumental," and series like "The Way of the Master." He has also participated in various live events.

This year, over 35,000 National Day of Prayer events, orchestrated by approximately 40,000 volunteers across the U.S., have drawn participation from millions of individuals, according to officials.

In 1952, Congress passed a joint resolution which President Harry S. Truman then signed into law, establishing an annual National Day of Prayer. Later, in 1988, this legislation was revised and enacted under President Ronald Reagan’s administration, officially fixing the observance on the initial Thursday of May each year.

Every year, this gathering strengthens our community during moments of joy, motivation, and solidarity," stated Ron Inge, president of Southwest Florida Community Prayer Breakfast, Inc. "This lovely morning filled our hearts with emotion and reinforced the significance of belief, camaraderie, and togetherness.

The article initially appeared in the Fort Myers News-Press. Gatherings in Naples and Fort Myers see devoted individuals pray for the nation