Governor's prayer event goes virtual
Gov. Kevin Stitt's prayer effort set for February will be virtual instead of an in- person event.
The effort was previously planned as a prayer breakfast but is now being called the Oklahoma Governor's Prayer Event. Organizers said the video program, set for 8 a. m. Feb. 16, has been changed to a virtual format to make it safer in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Rev. Joel Harder, leader of Oklahoma Capitol Culture, said the governor's main concern is for the health and safety of all those participating.
Oklahoma Capitol Culture is the nonprofit that facilitated last year's Oklahoma Governor's Prayer Breakfast and will do the same for this year's virtual program.
“Moving the February event — which drew thousands of participants last year — to a virtual format allows us to come together in a safe way at a time when prayer and unity are so desperately needed. We plan to hold a live prayer event similar to last year's as soon as it is safe to do so,” Harder said in a news release.
He said the program will include multimedia content, interactive calls to prayer and remarks from the governor and First Lady Sarah Stitt. The event will also include remarks from Bob Goff, author of “Dream Big” and “Love Does.”
Last year, an estimated 1,200 people filled the National Cowboy Hall and Western Heritage Museum and the event was simulcast around the state in cities like Enid, Claremore, Tulsa, Edmond, Altus and McLoud so that other Oklahomans of faith could join in the effort.
Harder said this year's virtual presentation will give more Oklahomans an opportunity to participate.
“In the midst of so much struggle and division, with a new legislative session ahead of us, this is our opportunity to unite as a state and pray for our leaders, our neighbors and our future,” he said.
Viewers may register to access the free program by going to www.prayforoklahoma.com.