A crowd gathered around the steps of the County Courthouse at noon Thursday, May 6 to celebrate the National Day of Prayer.

Thursday’s observance marked the 39th year Americans have gathered together to pray for the nation’s leaders, protectors, children, and community.

Clermont County Commissioner Bob Proud was the emcee for the event and he vowed that despite radio reports that the 2010 gathering would be the last National Day of Prayer, the county would continue to gather on the first Thursday in May.

“We’ll need to close off three or four blocks of Main Street for next year,” Proud said.

Clermont County Auditor Linda Fraley read a passage from I Timothy and thanked the crowd for their support.

“We want and need your prayers,” Fraley said.

The Central Joint Fire Department displayed a large American flag from a ladder truck in front of the Courthouse as area pastors, elected officials, and volunteers read from the Bible and prayed for the country, military, county, community, and children.

The ceremony concluded with the playing of Taps by Master Sergeant Rodger Young.