Third grader Kaya Morgan prays before lunch March 23 during the Because We Can Day of Prayer at His Kids Christian School in Jefferson Township.

BUTLER TWP — “Because We Can” might seem like three little words to some, but to those at His Kids Christian School, they are a symbol of pride.

The first Because We Can Day of Prayer was held March 23 at the school, where throughout the day students learned about the power and importance of prayer.

“We want our students to know how privileged they are to be attending a Christian school where prayer is permitted in every classroom,” principal Debora Dawson said.

Every hour on the hour, students traveled to different classrooms where they engaged in three- to five-minute prayer sessions.

In each classroom, the student hosts were given the opportunity to select a topic for the focus of their prayer. Topics included praying for families, the community, the growth of the school, world peace and good health for all.

To begin the event, the staff of the Summit Presbyterian Church shared the underlying message of “We Pray Because We Can.”

At 10 a.m., the first graders prayed for themselves, families, friends and good health. Third graders conducted the service at 11 a.m. by praying with their fellow classmates for the community, the sick, good weather and safety.

During lunch, three sixth grade students read their prayers for the state, a better economy and a full recovery for the people of Japan.

“I pray for economic stability and more jobs to open,” Noah Kashella, 12, said. “I pray that businesses and farmers get the help they need.”

Gretchen Stough, 12, prayed for the township and to stop crime in Butler County.

“Everybody needs prayer,” Gretchen said with a smile.

Isabelle Lindsay, 11, ended the noon prayer session with her prayer for the Japanese government, the war in Iraq and the president of the United States.

“I prayed for everyone in the world because what happens every day affects everybody,” Isabelle said.

The day continued at 1 p.m. with second graders praying for the privilege of Christian education, the school and good health for teachers and students.

At 2 p.m., kindergartners prayed for the world, world peace and to end fighting.

The staff at Summit Presbyterian Church led the students in a closing prayer at 3 p.m. to end the day.