The International Prayer Breakfast has been observed each year since 1985 in recognition of the opening of the United Nations General Assembly. It is a non-political, non-partisan event facilitated by the Christian Embassy and other NGO's. Invitations are sent to each of the 191 ambassadors and other high-level delegates who represent their governments at the United Nations. Nearly every religion and nation have been represented in previous years.

The objectives of this gathering are:

• To acknowledge the sovereignty of God over all peoples and nations
• To invoke God's wisdom and blessing on those involved in the work of the United Nations
• To express the support of the faith community for those who serve at the United Nations
• To provide for an expression of friendship and fellowship in the spirit of Jesus