The First Official Act of Congress: A Call to Prayer!

The first official act of Congress was a call to prayer that the Rev. Mr. Duché be desired to open the Congress tomorrow morning with prayers, at the Carpenter’s Hall, at 9 o’clock.”

When the Congress met, Mr. Cushing made a motion that it should be opened with Prayer. It was opposed by Mr. Jay of New York and Mr. Rutledge of South Carolina because we were so divided in religious sentiments, some Episcopalians, some Quakers, some Anabaptists, some Presbyterians and some Congregationalists, that we could not join in the same act of worship.

Mr. Samuel Adams arose and said, “that he was no bigot; and could hear a Prayer from any gentleman of Piety and virtue who was at the same time a friend to his Country. He was a stranger in Philadelphia, but had heard that Mr. Duche’ deserved that character and therefore he moved that Mr. Duche’ an Episcopal clergy man, might be desired to read Prayers to Congress tomorrow morning.” The motion was seconded, and passed in the affirmative. Mr. Randolph, our president waited on Mr. Duche’ and received for answer, that if his health would permit, he certainly would.

Watch the video below (5:46) to learn how the call upon God was inspired and how it moved these men of Congress the next morning.

Recommended Books / Products:

First Prayer in Congress Framed Picture

The First Prayer in Continental Congress held in Philadelphia, September 1774.

This Historic moment is a unique work of art
that reflects the foundation of our Great Country.

Comes with a 8″ X 10″ Cherry Frame with gold accent Guide for a legend of the people in the picture.