Prayer at the flagpole: Students and adults gather for National Day of Prayer

Despite brisk Wisconsin weather and snow flurries just before the gathering on Thursday, May 7, 2026, nearly 50 children and adults from New Testament Church and Christian Academy united, holding hands near the flagpole at Merrill City Hall. They were determined to pause the modern “busyness of life” and to take time to lift up their city, community, and country in prayer. Beginning at noon and commemorating the National Day of Prayer, attendees offered very specific prayers for the people who keep Merrill running — from garbage truck drivers and street cleaners to Fire Chief Josh Klug to Mayor Steve Hass, who were prayed for by name.
Since New Testament was founded in Merrill approximately 30 years ago, the church leaders have helped to organize a time of prayer at City Hall on the National Day of Prayer. Over the years, the number of attendees from other congregations has dwindled, but organizers are hopeful more local residents will come out to pray with them next year. Attendees passionately hope more churches will join in the future, noting that having “too many distractions” often overshadows the spiritual aspect of life in the nation.
Participants went around the circle, taking turns lifting up Merrill community members by name and function. They prayed for godly wisdom for, and wise decisions from Lincoln County Circuit Court Judges Jessica Fehrenbach and Galen Bayne-Allison, also by name. First responders were continually remembered, with prayers for the safety of police, the sheriff’s department, EMS, and the fire department. The group also recognized area hospital staff and asked for blessings over Merrill’s teachers, Christian schools, and local pastors.
Prayers extended well beyond the city limits, asking for wisdom for Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers. At the federal level, attendees prayed for a hedge of protection around President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance, asking them to lead with godly principles. Ultimately, the gathering served as a unified plea for an end to national division, declaring gratitude that Merrill remains a safe, thriving haven for families and wholesome businesses.