In the near future, I intend to introduce a Senate Resolution designating the first Thursday of May each year as “The Day of Prayer and Fasting” in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. This observance encourages citizens to pause for prayer, fasting, reflection, and personal renewal in recognition of the spiritual heritage that has long shaped our Commonwealth and nation.

Pennsylvania’s constitutional tradition affirms the importance of faith, conscience, and moral responsibility in public life. From the earliest days of the Commonwealth, our laws and institutions have recognized the value of religious liberty and the role of reflection and humility in the pursuit of the common good. During the American founding and the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress proclaimed multiple days of prayer and fasting, calling the people to unity and reflection during times of uncertainty.

Today, Pennsylvanians face complex social, economic, and cultural challenges. Establishing an annual Day of Prayer and Fasting offers an inclusive opportunity—open to people of all faiths and traditions, as well as those who value reflection—to seek wisdom, express gratitude, and reaffirm shared commitments to community, compassion, and responsibility.

This resolution aligns with longstanding national practice. The National Day of Prayer has been observed on the first Thursday of May since its enactment by joint resolution of Congress in 1952, signed into law by President Harry S. Truman. Many states, including Tennessee, New York, Texas, and North Carolina, similarly recognize this day through legislative action or gubernatorial proclamation.

I respectfully invite my colleagues to join me in cosponsoring this resolution to formally designate the first Thursday of May as “The Day of Prayer and Fasting” in Pennsylvania, honoring our constitutional heritage while fostering unity, reflection, and goodwill across the Commonwealth.

For further information, please contact Don Beishl, Chief of Staff, at dbeishl@pasen.gov, or Aaron Bashir, Legislative Director, at abashir@pasen.gov.