The Local National Day of Prayer will be held from noon to 1 p.m. on Thursday at First Baptist Church, Mansfield St. in Brunswick. It is part of the 67th national annual observance.A new element to the annual observance is an essay contest, sponsored by state Sen. William Ligon. The theme of the essay is “describe the historical role of prayer by American government leaders.” High school students can enter the contest by writing 500 words on the subject and email to Sen. William Ligon at william@senatorligon.com. Hard copies may be sent or dropped off at 158 Scranton Connector, Brunswick, GA 31525. They must be submitted by 5 p.m. May 16. Cash prizes will be awarded for winners — $300 for first place, $200 for second place and $100 for third. The winners will be announced May 23.