The tradition of prayer breakfasts, where representatives of different religious denominations and political parties come together for spiritual communion, originated in the USA in the 20th century. The tradition of the National Prayer Breakfast at the Lithuanian Presidential Palace was initiated by President Valdas Adamkus in 2001. Three years ago, it was revived by President Gitanas Nausėda. “Bring strength and hope” is the motto of this year’s National Prayer Breakfast.
In his address, the President emphasized that even in these difficult times, as Russia continues its war in Ukraine with inhuman cruelty, when satanic evil is desperately trying to win against civilization, against the good, we nevertheless see the lights of hope. “It is extremely important in life to feel that you are not alone nor lonely. Whether we are talking about a person, a community or a country, there is always strength and hope somewhere nearby. There is always someone to lean on. As evil rages around us, we see wonderful people who shine with particular brightness, whose efforts make a difference not only in their personal lives, but also in the lives of entire communities and the country as a whole. People whose spirit of citizenship and social responsibility helps them achieve seemingly impossible things,” Gitanas Nausėda spoke.
The attendants of the National Prayer Breakfast and the viewers of the broadcast were also addressed by Bishop of Vilkaviškis Rimantas Norvila and Antanas Saulaitis SJ. Svitlana Zaluzhna, the founder of the TULA project promoting cultural cooperation between Lithuanians and Ukrainians, Ajana Lolat, the founder of the Mulan Foundation, and Modestas Ekleris, a volunteer of the Order of Malta from Simnas, shared their personal testimonies.
