For 75 years, this day has been more than a tradition. It has been a call, a call to pause, a call to reflect and a call to remember that beyond our differences we share a common need for wisdom, compassion and grace.”

Hastings Mayor Mary Fasbender

The Hastings Ministerial Association brought together clergy, public officials, first responders, educators, nonprofit leaders and community members Thursday morning, May 7, for the annual National Day of Prayer Breakfast at Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel.

The event, hosted by emcees Randy Berg and Paris Pasch, blended humor, worship and prayer while emphasizing unity among Hastings churches and the broader community. The breakfast was attended by representatives from churches, schools, local government, law enforcement, nonprofits and businesses across Hastings.

“This year marks the 75th annual observance day of National Day of Prayer,” Hastings Mayor Mary Fasbender told attendees. “For 75 years, this day has been more than a tradition. It has been a call, a call to pause, a call to reflect and a call to remember that beyond our differences we share a common need for wisdom, compassion and grace.”

Fasbender noted that Hastings is home to 37 faith communities, something she said has long been one of the city’s strengths.

“It’s a place where someone can go to,” Fasbender said. “If they can’t go to this church, they can go to another one. And I’ve always said that I appreciate that in our community.”

The morning included prayers for local government, first responders, businesses, educators, churches and families. Participants spent time praying together at their tables throughout the program.

Pastor Greg Geier of St. Philip's Lutheran Church led prayers for civic leaders, asking for wisdom and compassion for elected officials at every level of government.

A major focus of the breakfast was support for first responders. Dakota County Sheriff Joe Leko, Hastings Police Chief Kyle Linscheid and Hastings Fire Department Chief John Townsend spoke about the emotional and physical toll public safety work can take.

“We see many in their worst days,” one speaker said, noting that officers and emergency personnel often carry the emotional burden of traumatic calls home with them.

Linscheid said Hastings police respond to approximately 20,000 calls for service each year and asked for prayers for “courage and resilience” for officers and their families.

Townsend highlighted the increased risks first responders face from cancer, heart disease and PTSD.

“We have to remember with all of our responders, both police and fire, they’re at a greater risk for a variety of diseases and health concerns that the general population is not,” he said.

The breakfast also recognized longtime Hastings firefighter Al Storley, who is retiring after 41 years of service.

Business leaders and community organizations were also recognized during the event. Speakers thanked representatives from the Hastings Journal, Hastings Community TV, Premier Bank and the Starkson family for supporting the breakfast.

Kristine Wehrkamp Herman, superintendent of Hastings ISD 200, spoke about the importance of student safety and supporting educators.

“Most importantly, what we would love in prayer today is first and foremost for the safety of our children,” Wehrkamp Herman said. “That means all-encompassing safety.”

She also spoke about the emotional demands placed on teachers, counselors and support staff who work with students facing significant challenges.

“Our staff experience that as well,” she said. “We’re working with students who come with all sorts of needs, and that can make for long days.”

Pastors and ministry leaders from churches throughout Hastings were recognized during the breakfast, including representatives from River of Life Church, The Journey Church, Homestead Community Church, Resurrection United Methodist Church and several others. Speakers emphasized cooperation between churches and community organizations.

Representatives from Hastings Family Service also shared information about the nonprofit’s work assisting families in need. Executive Director DawnMarie Vihrachoff said the organization served more than 1,000 households through its food shelf during the previous month alone.

“None of spreading help and hope, which is the mission of HFS, would be possible without all of you,” she said.

The event also raised approximately $1,400, which organizers said would be split between Hastings Family Service and Hastings Total Life Care Center.