From Salvation Army marches at the end of the 19th century, to the culmination of Reverend Billy Graham’s historic crusade in 1957, to today’s event – “Prayer in the Square” – Times Square continues to serve as a “cathedral of the open air.” On Sunday, September 9th, 2007, Christians from New York and across the country will come together to strengthen our city’s spiritual community with an hour of song, prayer, and devotion.

Hosted by Times Square Church, “Prayer in the Square” provides an opportunity for all Christians – regardless of their age, race, gender, or denomination – to renew and deepen their commitment to our city’s spiritual community. In all our diversity, New Yorkers share an appreciation for the power of faith. After all, our city was built by people who came here in order to worship God freely. “Prayer in the Square” commemorates this legacy and celebrates our city’s rich tradition of cooperative spirituality.

The great preacher and evangelist Jonathan Edwards once said, “Prayer is as natural an expression of faith as breathing is of life.” Today’s event gives New Yorkers an opportunity to give voice to their faith and to demonstrate their vision for our city’s bright future. As not only two or three but thousands of Christians gather at the crossroads of our city, we recognize their steadfast commitment to making New York a better place.