The 53rd annual Iowa Prayer Breakfast will be held on Thursday, April 17, 2014 at 7:15-8:45 a.m. It will be held in the Ballroom at the Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center (formerly Veterans Memorial Auditorium) at 883 5th Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50309.
The purpose of the Iowa Prayer Breakfast is to bring together Iowa’s governor, state legislators, and community and religious leaders to join with the public to ask God’s direction and blessing upon the state. Starting in 1961, Iowans have continued this beloved tradition, gathering every Maundy Thursday to celebrate the beginning of the Easter weekend. People from all walks of life come to listen to local vocalists and musicians, and to hear an inspiring message from a selected keynote speaker. Governor and Mrs. Branstad, Lt. Governor Reynolds, and several other elected officials have committed to attend this year’s prayer breakfast.
Esteemed and internationally renowned opera singer Dr. Simon Estes will be this year’s featured keynote speaker. Simon Estes has sung in 90 of the major opera houses, with 115 orchestras, in 102 operatic roles, and with over 90 different conductors worldwide. Simon has performed for over 20 presidents throughout the world, including six U.S. presidents. He has also sung for notable religious figures including two Popes, at a Billy Graham Crusade, Dr. Schuller at the Crystal Cathedral, Arch Bishop Desmond Tutu at St. George’s Cathedral in South Africa, and numerous churches around the world. Estes’ heart and career have led him to help thousands of children around the world. This past year, he has focused on raising funds to eradicate Malaria in Africa. Professor Estes continues to teach at Iowa State University and Wartburg College. The title of Estes’ remarks for the Iowa Prayer Breakfast is “Reverence for God & Gratitude to Jesus”. Dr. Estes will also share his musical talents by singing a solo during the breakfast.
The cost to attend the Iowa Prayer Breakfast is $20 for adults and $10 for students. The reservation deadline is the end of the business day April 7th. To register, go to www.IowaPrayerBreakfast.com. For questions about reservations, contact Justin Brady at 515-966-4625 or Justin@testoftimedesign.com.
Printed resources are available for download at http://iowaprayerbreakfast.com/resources.htm. For complete information on the Iowa Prayer Breakfast, visit www.IowaPrayerBreakfast.com.
