The Springfield Prayer Breakfast is a longstanding and cherished local observance of the National Day of Prayer. While open to all, this interdenominational event specifically observes the Christian faith tradition. Each year, this gathering brings together leaders from various sectors—faith communities, businesses, government, education, and nonprofits—to seek divine guidance, express gratitude, and pray for the well-being of our city, nation, and world. The event serves as a unifying moment, reminding attendees of the power of prayer to inspire hope, build relationships, and strengthen the moral and spiritual fabric of our community. Council of Churches of the Ozarks has been involved in the prayer breakfast for decades and became the event coordinator in 2021.
The National Day of Prayer, established in 1952 and formally recognized in 1988 as the first Thursday of May, has been observed in Springfield for decades. The Springfield Prayer Breakfast has grown to become a significant event in the region, bringing together hundreds of attendees who share a common commitment to faith and community service. Throughout its history, the event has featured inspiring keynote speakers, heartfelt prayers, and messages that uplift and challenge attendees to lead lives of service and compassion.
The Springfield Prayer Breakfast is more than an annual event—it is a catalyst for unity, community and transformation. Its primary purposes include:
Encouraging Spiritual Reflection – Providing a dedicated time for prayer and reflection amidst the busyness of daily life.
Fostering Community Connection – Bringing together diverse groups and fostering relationships that transcend denominational, political, and professional boundaries.
- Inspiring Leadership and Service – Challenging individuals in positions of influence to lead with wisdom, humility, and integrity.
- Strengthening Our City – Seeking God’s guidance and blessing over Springfield’s families, schools, businesses, and government.
As Springfield continues to grow and evolve, the Prayer Breakfast remains a vital tradition. Looking ahead, the event seeks to expand its reach, engage younger generations, and incorporate new voices while maintaining its core mission of unity in prayer. The organizing committee is committed to ensuring the event remains welcoming, relevant, and deeply impactful for all who attend.
The Springfield Prayer Breakfast is a powerful expression of the Christian faith in action, a time-honored tradition that reminds us of the importance of prayer in shaping our personal lives and our shared community. As we look to the future, we invite all who share in this vision to participate, support, and uphold this meaningful observance of the National Day of Prayer. For more information about attending this year’s event visit https://ccozarks.org/events/springfield-prayer-breakfast
2025 Steering Committee Members:
Daniel Derges, Mid-Missouri Bank
Julie Epperson, NLS
Jerry Gardner, O’Bannon Bank
Bill Hennessey, Mercy Springfield Communities
Jennifer Jackson, Springfield Business Journal
Stephanie Jenkins, KWND
Billy Kimmons, Hood-Rich, Inc. Architects & Engineers
Micheal Kolstad, Evangel University
Linda McAllister, Community Volunteer
Matt Morrow, Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce
Ethan Forhetz, Convoy of Hope
Ken Palermo, Catholic Charities of Southwest Missouri
Kert Parsley, James River Church
Bill Perkin, Vistage
Bob Roberts, Second Baptist Church
Cora Scott, City of Springfield
Tim Siebert, CoxHealth
Tim Smith, The Larson Group
Jaimie Trussell, Council of Churches of the Ozarks
Chris Tuckness, Habitat for Humanity of Springfield
