Obama, Nixon to speak at memorial service for tornado victims Sunday

(The following news release was issued by the governor's office.)

Gov. Jay Nixon has declared Sunday May 29, one week after the devastating tornado that struck Joplin, as an official State Day of Prayer and Remembrance. The United States and Missouri flags will fly at half-staff at all government buildings in Missouri throughout Sunday.


The Governor and local clergy has also organized a memorial service for the victims of the devastating tornado that struck the city of Joplin on May 22. President Barack Obama will attend the service.

"In the most trying times of disaster, grief and loss, Missourians come together to provide support, strength and assistance," said Gov. Nixon in his proclamation. "During this day of prayer and this memorial service, I invite all Missourians to pause and remember their neighbors and draw upon the resources of their faith in support of their fellow Missourians."

The memorial service will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at the Taylor Performing Arts Center on the campus of Missouri Southern State University. During the service, Gov. Nixon and President Obama will be joined by local clergy, with music, scripture and prayer.

Gov. Nixon will offer remarks in remembrance of the victims and on behalf of survivors and the Joplin-area community. President Obama will offer brief remarks.

Randy Garris of College Heights Christian Church will lead the service, introduce speakers and read scripture. Rev. Justin Monaghan of St. Mary's Church will bring the invocation and benediction. Rev. Aaron Brown of St. Paul's United Methodist Church will deliver the message. Both St. Mary's and St. Paul churches were destroyed by the tornado.

A strong showing of local, state and federal officials is expected, and a large section of the auditorium will be set aside for local clergy. The public is invited and encouraged to attend.