On the morning of Thursday, May 1, more than 200 community members gathered at the Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel in Hastings for a cherished annual tradition: the National Day of Prayer Breakfast. Hosted by the Hastings Ministerial Association, the event brought together faith leaders, civic officials, business owners, educators, law enforcement, and residents in a spirit of unity, prayer, and shared hope.
Serving as Masters of Ceremony were Pastor Paris Pasch of The Journey Church and Pastor Randy Berg of Calvary Covenant Church. Their warm rapport, sprinkled with humor and humility, set the tone for a morning that was both deeply reverent and joyfully communal.
"We're here to pray together," said Berg as the event opened. "Not just to talk about prayer—but to actually do it."
Pasch emphasized the inclusive nature of the event, noting, “We’re not here to argue about turf or territory. We’re here to build relationships. We’re here to show that faith is a valuable part of everyone’s life.”
The theme for the 2025 National Day of Prayer was drawn from Romans 15:13: “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him.” That theme resonated throughout the morning, beginning with an opening prayer by Father Dave Hennen of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.
Hastings Mayor Mary Fasbender took to the podium next, offering words that connected her civic role with her personal faith. “This day calls us to pause, reconnect with God, and realign our hearts with purpose, hope, and compassion,” she said. “Let today be a day where this Hastings community prays together, believes together, loves together, and moves forward with hope.”
Prayers for local, state, and national leaders followed, led by Pastor Greg Geier of St. Philip’s Lutheran Church. A panel featuring Chief David Wilske of the Hastings Police Department, Fire Chief John Townsend, and Dakota County Sheriff Joe Leko gave attendees insight into the burdens and blessings of first responder life.
"Every call we get is someone’s bad day," Townsend shared. "We never really have 'easy' calls." Sheriff Leko emphasized the emotional toll on responders and their families, asking the community to “support each other and give each other grace.”
Wilske noted that what makes a day fulfilling is “positive interactions with the community.” He celebrated a 24% reduction in crimes against persons over the past year—a testament, he said, to the support and prayers of the community.
This year’s breakfast also featured a focus on various pillars of Hastings society, including local businesses, educators, and faith-based organizations.
Jesse Starkson, of Starkson Family Life Celebration Chapel—the year’s host venue—shared how his business is more than just a job: “It’s a calling. We rely on the Holy Spirit to guide us as we serve people on the worst days of their lives.”
Superintendent Tammy Champa of Hastings Public Schools spoke about recent innovations in education, including a new Pathways program that allows students to pursue certifications in healthcare. She called for prayers for the district’s educators, especially amid leadership transitions and the growing complexity of student needs.
“Staff are the fabric of our schools,” Champa said. “They show up every day for every child.”
Prayers were also lifted for Hastings’ business owners—many of whom stood to be recognized—and for organizations like Hastings Family Service and Hastings Total Life Care Center. Amy Sutton, CEO of Hastings Family Service, reminded the audience of their mission to provide “help and hope” to neighbors in need. Andrea Coleman, from the Total Life Care Center, offered a heartfelt prayer for families across the city.
One of the most moving portions of the event was a celebration of the city’s churches and faith-based ministries. Pastor Dustin Hinkle from River of Life Church introduced leaders from numerous congregations.
“We are not in competition with one another,” said Berg. “We are one church in many buildings.”
Pasch echoed the sentiment, encouraging residents to pray for every church they drive past. “Don’t just pray once a year—pray all year,” he said.