In 1985, a small group of business, religious and public service leaders along with the Cobb Chamber of Commerce planned the first Annual Cobb County Prayer Breakfast. The event was held at the Cobb County Civic Center (as the Waverly Hotel and Galleria Centre did not exist) and was attended by approximately 500 people, which was considered a huge success.
Over the years, Cobb County has seen many changes. In 1985, when the 1st Cobb County Prayer Breakfast took place, Earl Smith was Chairman of the Cobb County Board of Commissioners and Joe Mack Wilson was Mayor of Marietta. Cobb County’s population was approximately 350,000 (now estimated to be 700,000) and the Cobb Galleria Convention Center was just a dream.
The Cobb County Prayer Breakfast has seen changes also. It has grown to an event that attracts close to 1,000 attendees and is now held at the Cobb Galleria Centre.
But some things remain constant. The Cobb County Prayer Breakfast has always been a non-denominational event that is open to all the residents of Cobb County. This annual tradition provides an opportunity for local citizens from all walks of the community to assemble together for inspiration and fellowship through prayer.
Through the years, the speakers have been leaders who represented a variety of businesses and communities. They have included a former Prime Minister of England, a United States Ambassador, 3 Georgia governors, 2 United States Senators, 3 Congressmen, a Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice as well as Fortune 500 CEOs, sports figures and religious leaders. But the speakers have also been leaders within the Cobb community who have spoken from their hearts about the power of prayer in their lives.
The continued success of the Cobb County Prayer Breakfast is also due to the involvement by local residents as program participants—including students from Cobb high schools, educators and local leaders who are respected because of their dedication of service to God and Country.
The common thread throughout all these years has been a great community coming together through the medium of prayer—prayer for our world, for our country, our state and our county and once again, the Cobb County Prayer Breakfast will provide the opportunity for us to gather together in prayer.