Texas Gov. Greg Abbott (R.) declared Thursday that Sunday, Sept. 3 will be a day of prayer across the state in the wake of Hurricane Harvey's destruction.
Abbott made the announcement outside a heavily damaged church to an enthusiastic crowd in Rockport, Texas. He was accompanied by Vice President Mike Pence and their wives. Abbott said the day of prayer is for everyone to pray—regardless of faith, church, or background—"as one united people for the future of this state, and future of this country; for healing and for hope, for rebuilding, and for the next great generation of Texans."
"It's important that we remember that the greatest power that exists is the power of God, and the way that God can touch and move all of our lives," Abbott said. "It was God acting through the lives of so many Texans who came to the rescue of other Texans."
"It was the power of God that was able to pull the people out of the water and literally save them," Abbott said. "And as a result of that, I think it is very important that I issue and sign a Texas Gubernatorial Proclamation here today. By the power invested in me as governor of the State of Texas, I am declaring this Sunday, Sept. 3, as a day of prayer in Texas."
Abbott signed the proclamation to cheers from the crowd before inviting Pence to speak.
Pence acknowledged the difficult days the region has faced, and promised continued assistance to Texas.
"President Trump sent us here to say we are with you. The American people are with you," Pence said. "We are here today, we will be here tomorrow, and we will be here every day until this city and this state and this region rebuild bigger and better than ever before."
Second Lady Karen Pence led the crowd in prayer following the vice president's remarks.