As faith leaders of the Washington metropolitan region gear up for 2026, a collective mission moved by faith, leadership and the everlasting power of God thrive in the spirit of prayer and providence.
From addressing crime and violence, to supporting vulnerable populations through assisted living and “Faith-i-tude,” here’s what local religious figures are praying for in the new year.
The Rev. Dr. Henry P. Davis, pastor of First Baptist Church of Highland Park in Hyattsville, Maryland
“My prayer for 2026 is for people to focus on the power of God, and his ability to bring us through any challenge that they encounter. We are building a $40 million [senior living solution] on our campus for people 55 years and active. People can go to the First Baptist Church of Highland Park and click on the Highlands.”
The Rev. Dr. Unnia Pettus, best-selling author and founder of Nothing But God Ministries
“In 2026, I am claiming restoration of my health, career and expansion of ministry. The last four years made me feel like I was losing everything – from my battle with three cancers [to] my ability to work. My book “Faith-i-tude” is coming out in February 2026. Faith-i-tude: Believe it. Speak it. Watch God do it.”
The Rev. Dr. Elwood Gray, president of the Black Ministers Conference of Montgomery County and pastor of Peace in the Valley Baptist Church in Silver Spring, Maryland
“The spirit of the Lord is upon me and he called to open the doors of the prison and set the captives free. We want to make sure that in 2026 we are doubling our effort to renew prison ministry. For example, on Dec. 20 we went into the Montgomery County Prerelease Center to hand out books, toys and clothing to help with transition of inmates that are soon to be released.”
The Rev. Dr. Joseph Turner, senior pastor of Matthews Memorial Baptist Church in Southeast D.C.
“Violence and murder are on the rampage. The TV Tube is plastered with images of shootings and murders in random places. The National Guard have been deployed and are visible in communities among civilians. My prayer for 2026 is for peace and that God would heal the land; healing for those whose lives have been forever altered as victims; and those who would perpetuate violence and murder. The scriptures teach: ‘If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then I will hear from Heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.’ My prayer is Lord, heal the land!”
The Rev. Krishnan Natesan, senior pastor of Hemingway Memorial AME Church in District Heights, Maryland
“My prayer for 2026 is that our community will come together, realize our strength, realize our power, and realize that we can overcome the adversities that we’ve dealt with in 2025. And that we unite in faith, solidarity, [and] we find ways to support our own businesses and individuals in our community.”