Latvian National Prayer Breakfast

On November 5, the annual Latvian National Prayer Breakfast took place at the Latvian Society House. It was held in Latvia for the fifth time. (History of the Prayer Breakfast)

The event was attended by the President and the Prime Minister, former President Guntis Ulmanis, members of parliament and municipal leaders, and representatives of culture and business. Among the participants this year was the world-known evangelist and founder of several charitable organizations Franklin Graham, who was also in Riga for the Festival of Hope. Guests from Germany, the Netherlands and other countries also attended this year's Prayer Breakfast.

Franklin Graham was one of the main speakers at the Prayer Breakfast. He addressed those present by proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ. He also spoke about a turning point in his own life. Until the age of 22 he had enjoyed fast driving and alcohol, but then, after prayer, he sensed the presence of Jesus Christ in his life and began charitable work.

During the Prayer Breakfast, representatives and leaders from education, the arts, culture, sport and business met for mutual encouragement, spiritual strengthening and fellowship.

The event was hosted by Kristaps Talbergs, and Bishop Pavils Bruvers blessed the breakfast. Leaders of the largest denominations also offered prayers. Several people had been invited to testify about specific works of God in their lives. This year the music was provided by saxophonist Artis Gaga and Festival of Hope guest pianist Huntley Brown from the United States.

This year special attention at the Prayer Breakfast was given to hope, and those present were encouraged to open their hearts to new hope. The Prayer Breakfast proclaimed that at a time when Latvia and the whole world have been touched by crisis, hope has very great significance. Tension is felt not only in the country's economic sphere; it also affects each person personally, our families, friends and colleagues. In this time it becomes clear that previous ideas about life are changing, and in place of limited outward activity there is a turn toward inner activity. A new possibility and a new hope are being sought.

The President of Latvia, Valdis Zatlers, gave an address at the event. It was connected with this year's Prayer Breakfast theme and portrayed hope as an inspiration.

Inese Slesere, head of the Prayer Breakfast executive committee, said to more than 250 people: "Through the Holy Scriptures God says: "Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears My voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and dine with him, and he with Me." (Rev. 3:20)
We hope that at the Prayer Breakfast you will receive strengthening, encouragement and new hope for yourself, your family, your region and our country!"

Zbignevs Stankevics, Archbishop of Riga of the Roman Catholic Church in Latvia, called for Latvia's spiritual awakening and wished that everywhere, in politics, journalism and business, people would think not in terms of private or group interests, but in categories of the common good.

Part of the proceeds from the participation fee was donated to soup kitchens, which provide warm lunches for the poor, large families, people living alone and the homeless.
The Prayer Breakfast at the Latvian Society House concluded with the national anthem, the prayer "Our Father in heaven" and words of blessing.