National Day of Prayer

From Chalo Chatu, Zambia online encyclopedia
National Day of Prayer and Fasting
Also calledDay of Prayer
Observed byZambia
TypeNational
SignificanceThe day of national prayers, peace and reconciliation
CelebrationsPrayer, Worship and fasting
DateOctober 18
Next timeOctober 18, 2024 (2024-10)
FrequencyAnnual

The National Day of Prayer and fasting or National Prayer Day is an annual day of observance held on the 18th of October designated by the government of Zambia.

History

The fall observance was established by President Lungu as an official national holiday in 2015 for prayers, peace and reconciliation. The Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ) executive director Pukuta Mwanza said the declaration of October 18 would help strengthen Zambia as a Christian Nation. Bishop Ndhlovu described the designation of the public holiday as the greatest gift that Mr Lungu had given to the Zambian people. MMD president Nevers Mumba also welcomed the declaration of October 18 as the day of national prayer and fasting, saying there was nothing wrong to have a public holiday dedicated to prayers.

In 2017 President Lungu officiated the national day of prayer in Kitwe.

Observance

The National Day of Prayer and Fasting is celebrated by Zambians of Christians religion of many denominations, Protestants and Catholics, but is more heavily on the Pentecostal church's. On the National Day of Prayer, many Zambians assemble in prayer at stadiums as well as in churchs.

Traditionally, the President of Zambia issues an official National Day of Prayer proclamation each year as well.

See also

References