The Cabinet of Antigua and Barbuda says it will strengthen promotion of the National Day of Prayer after this year’s observance attracted fewer participants than expected.

Cabinet spokesman Maurice Merchant acknowledged that Prime Minister Gaston Browne and his ministers were disappointed with attendance levels, noting that 2025 marked the first year the event was held as a full public holiday.

Merchant said greater involvement from churches across Antigua and Barbuda will be key to improving turnout. “Most of us only heard about it a week before,” he explained, stressing the need for earlier and more consistent engagement through the Ecclesiastical Commission, which oversees the day.

Introduced last year as a half-holiday, the National Day of Prayer is intended to encourage national reflection and thanksgiving. Government officials describe it as a moment for the people of Antigua and Barbuda to give thanks for past blessings while seeking divine guidance for the country’s future.

Merchant reaffirmed that Cabinet sees the event as an essential part of national life. He said the government will work with churches and community groups to ensure broader awareness and participation in 2026.