Prayers for the Earth

Signed into law in 1952, the National Day of Prayer is observed on the first Thursday in May. This year, however, the Obama administration is appealing a recent court ruling that deemed the day of religious contemplation unconstitutional. Despite the controversy, many people of all faiths will spend a few extra moments asking for divine guidance.

As always, there's plenty to pray for. A creation care movement is growing in religious communities, and the eco-minded faithful might consider praying for the families of the workers killed in the BP oil rig explosion, the residents of the Gulf Coast whose livelihoods will be impacted by the environmental disaster, and the region's sea birds and marine animals. Devout environmentalists might want to include a plea for an offshore drilling ban. Hey, it doesn't hurt to ask.

--Della Watson