Latter-day Saint Leaders Attend National Prayer Service

WASHINGTON 21 January 2009 Two Latter-day Saint leaders, President Dieter F. Uchtdorf of the First Presidency and Elder M. Russell Ballard of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, were among the religious leaders who attended the National Prayer Service today in celebration of the inauguration of President Barack Obama and Vice President Joe Biden.

In speaking with the media following the service, President Uchtdorf said he prays for President Obama’s success in leading the country and that President Obama’s focus on hope and optimism are also important principles in the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Elder Ballard said that today’s meeting, at which representatives of many religions came together to pray for President Obama and the Congress, was a testament to the ideals of the United States.

The National Prayer Service is an opportunity for the newly inaugurated president and vice president of the United States to join with dignitaries and Americans of diverse faiths to celebrate the inauguration through prayer, readings and musical performances.