The Evangelical Alliance of Antigua and Barbuda will host its annual Pray-Cade on Sunday, Aug. 17, calling residents to unite in prayer amid rising crime, particularly among the nation’s youth, the _Antigua Observer_ reported.

Reverend Dr. Olson Daniel, president of the Evangelical Alliance and pastor at Wesleyan Holiness Church, said the prayer drive — now in its third year since being revived — is meant to proactively address the country’s social challenges rather than react to specific incidents.

“We don’t wait for something to happen to react,” Daniel told _Observer Media_. “This year, our route will span from the Old Parliament Building, down to Gray’s Farm and Five Islands, ending with a special time of thanksgiving.”

The event will begin at 2 p.m. at the Old Parliament Building, with participants encouraged to arrive early. The route includes several stops where prayers will be offered for national leaders, communities and protection against crime.

Daniel said the initiative, open to people of all faiths, seeks unity and spiritual intervention for Antigua and Barbuda’s future. “If you love Antigua and Barbuda, we invite you to be part of this important spiritual exercise,” he said.

With crime concerns growing, Daniel emphasized that prayer is essential to “healing the land.” Quoting Scripture, he added: “One will chase a thousand and two will put ten thousand to flight. This event is about joining forces, trusting God and believing that with His help, we can turn the tide on the crime wave.”