Overview of the Event

On July 17, 2025, Sumner County participated in the second annual Pray4TN event, held at the Sumner County Commissioners’ meeting room. An estimated 200 attendees gathered to engage in a day of prayer, fasting, and reflection, marking the implementation of House Joint Resolution No. 51. This resolution designates July as a time for prayer and fasting across the state, seeking divine mercy and healing for Tennessee.

Opening Remarks

The meeting commenced with Sumner County Mayor John Isbell welcoming attendees and introducing various dignitaries, including Rep. Johnny Garrett, Rep. Jon Henry, Commissioner Jeremy Mansfield, and Rep. Monty Fritts, who played a key role in drafting the resolution.

Pledge of Allegiance

Two young leaders, Bo Alden and Charlotte Alden, led the assembly in the Pledge of Allegiance, setting a tone of unity and purpose.

Invocation and Testimony

Barbara Melilli served as the emcee for the event, invoking the presence of the Holy Spirit in Sumner County. She prayed for a transformative shift within the community and shared her personal testimony of overcoming death years ago.

Reading of House Joint Resolution No. 51

Commissioner Jeremy Mansfield initiated the reading of House Joint Resolution No. 51, which emphasizes the need for spiritual renewal and acknowledges the challenges facing Tennessee, including issues of corruption, violence, and family instability. Members of the Remnant Revival Church from Hendersonville continued reading the resolution, which ultimately called for collective repentance and a commitment to uphold Judeo-Christian values.

 Griffin Alden's Testimony

A poignant moment followed when 9-year-old  Griffin Alden shared his testimony about drowning at the age of two and how he was miraculously brought back to life. He prayed for the children of Sumner County and acknowledged the dedication of local teachers.

Closing Prayers

Pastor Cheryl Elliot then offered a heartfelt prayer for every elected official and appointee in Tennessee, asking that the state be spiritually rooted and not uprooted. She concluded her prayer with a petition for the church in Sumner County and across Tennessee.

Remarks by Rep. Monty Fritz

Rep. Monty Fritts closed the meeting with a passionate address lasting about 20 minutes. He noted that this was his 114th gathering with groups across Tennessee to pray, including all 95 counties. He spoke about the need to spiritually dismantle high places that hinder peace in Tennessee, urging men and women of faith to take a stand. He also addressed pressing issues such as abortion and what he termed “apostate teaching” in schools, clarifying that no state funds were used for implementing this proclamation.

Conclusion

The meeting lasted just over an hour, fostering a palpable sense of camaraderie among attendees. Many stayed afterward to fellowship and share in prayer, united by their commitment to the people of Tennessee.

For more information on House Joint Resolution No. 51, you can view it here or read about its implications on TrackBill. You can learn more about Pray4TN by clicking here.