The public is invited to observe the 57th annual National Day of Prayer on Thursday at Auburn City Hall.

Ten Auburn pastors will lead a public prayer event from noon to 1 p.m. in the plaza, 25 W. Main St.

“We are living in challenging times,” said Marjorie Gordon, NDOP coordinator. “Prayers will be offered for America and its leaders in the five centers of power: Government, church, education, family and the media.”

Proclamations from President Bush, Gov. Chris Gregoire and Mayor Pete Lewis will be part of the event.

“National Day of Prayer is a powerful reminder of our need to unite before God, regardless of cultural and denominational differences,” said Gordon, who wrote a recently published book, “Jumpstart to Power Prayers.”

This year’s theme is “Prayer! America’s Strength and Shield,” based on Psalm 28:7.

For more information, contact Gordon at 253-735-1087 or visit www.nationaldayofprayer.org.