President Barack Obama has issued a proclamation declaring Thursday, May 6 as the National Day of Prayer.

The president's proclamation calls on Americans to "give thanks for the many blessings God has bestowed upon our nation."

The decision comes despite a federal judge's ruling that a national prayer observance is unconstitutional.

National Day of Prayer chairman Shirley Dobson spoke with Pat Robertson on Tuesday's edition of The 700 Club about the prayer controversy. Click play to watch the interview.

Last month, federal judge Barbara Crabb ruled that such a proclamation is a violation of the separation of church and state. However, she suspended enforcement while her ruling is under appeal.

Meanwhile, National Day of Prayer Chairman Franklin Graham said the judge's ruling had a positive effect by focusing people on the need to pray.

Graham said that if he ever meets Crabb, he'll "give her a big hug and a kiss."