National Day of Prayer observed in Belton

May 8, 2025

By Daniel Moctezuma

Belton Journal

Under clear skies and the shade of the courthouse oaks, Belton residents took part in a prayer gathering for the National Day of Prayer on Thursday, May 1.

Hosted by the Central Texas Republican Women, the event featured worship music, scripture readings, proclamations, and time for collective prayer. This year’s theme was “Pour Out to the God of Hope and Be Filled,” based on Romans 15:13.

“We’re very thankful to be able to host this and offer it as a gift to the community,” said Janet Brown, president of Central Texas Republican Women. “This year we were glad to expand it by including worship music from Rebecca Martin and having our members take part in the national prayer.”

Rebecca Martin, a vocalist and guitarist, led worship with songs such as “Build Your Kingdom Here,” “Goodness of God,” and “How Great Thou Art.”

“I believe that music moves people’s hearts,” Martin said. “It’s a great way to bring a message. Most importantly, I want people to know that God reigns above everything.”

Kathleen Brown followed with a performance of “God Bless America,” and local elected officials and leaders participated in the reading of proclamations. Zenia Warren, president of the Texas Federation of Republican Women, read Governor Greg Abbott’s

proclamation declaring May 1 a day of prayer in Texas. Bell County Judge David Blackburn presented the county’s proclamation, drawing from historical references that connected the day to early colonial calls for national repentance and unity.

The Central Texas Republican Women invited several members to lead the official National Prayer, including Rebecca Tong, Natalie Austin, Lisa Colegrove Copeland, Wanita Reeder, Asha Petrich, and Heather Bounds.

The prayer called for unity and spiritual renewal in all sectors of society, including government, church, family, education, media, business, military, and the arts.

“We want to bridge to our community and have conversations—faith conversations,” Brown said. “We’re hoping to build bridges, not fences.”

Cindy Cox, a member of the Central Texas Republican Women and a participant in a neighborhood Bible study group, said her group chose to attend the observance in place of their usual meeting.

“We’re privileged to live in a country where we have the freedom to celebrate prayer,” Cox said. “It’s wonderful to see support from the different local leaders.”

Brown said hosting the observance at the courthouse made it accessible for the public and emphasized its symbolic role as a community center.

“Everyone knows where the courthouse is,” she said. “God graced us with sunshine this morning. It’s always beautiful weather for the National Day of Prayer.”