ABERDEEN, S.D.(Aberdeen American News)- For the 70th annual National Day of Prayer, seven local speakers will assemble at the Aberdeen First United Methodist Church to celebrate this year’s theme: Lord Pour Out Your Love, Life and Liberty.

Typically, the event is at a neutral site like the Aberdeen fire station. But COVID-19 has changed that, according to event coordinator Elaine Just. Last year, it was held virtually.

The seven people will offer prayers across a range of topics:

• Government: Travis Schaunaman, mayor of Aberdeen.
• Military: Naomi Bjorkman, West Point graduate and former Army captain.
• Media: John Papendick, American News columnist.
• Business: Ann Andrews, interior designer.
• Education: Art Marmorstein, professor of history at Northern State University.
• Church: Pastor Joe Hauer of Alive Church.
• Family: Elizabeth Quinn, veteran, military wife, stay-at-home mother.

Heather Beaner, a farmer near Mellette, will offer welcoming sentiments. Lyndell Martin and Mike Wood will perform music.

“This is something that’s been going on (for) a long time to bring our country together, to unify them, to pray for the country,” Just said.

The event will begin at noon at 502 S. Lincoln St. The public is encouraged to attend. Event organizers are expecting 75 to 100 people to attend. The event typically lasts an hour, according to Just.