Preserving America's Historical Significance

Prayers Offered by the Chaplain Of the U.S. Senate: The Rev. Peter Marshall, D.D.

At the opening of the daily sessions of the Senate of the United States, Friday, February 21, 1947.

We recognize, our Father, as George Washington saw so clearly that “no people can be bound to acknowledge and adore the Invisible Hand which conducts the affairs of men more than those of the United States. Every step by which they have advanced to the character of an independent nation seems to have been distinguished by some token of providential agency.”

Believing that the Hand that hath brought us thus far will not forsake us now, but if we are willing will lead us on into further inspiration and service to all mankind, we would join our prayers this day with those of Christian women all over the world in this day of prayer. With so many souls united in intercession for our own beloved country and for all mankind, may there come an outpouring of Thy Spirit into our hearts and minds, that we shall feel it, and all men may know it.

“Lift us above unrighteous anger and mistrust, into faith and hope and charity, by a simple and steadfast reliance on Thy sure will.” We pray for some evidence in what is said and done here, that Thou has been permitted a vote, and that men yielded to Thee. In Jesus’ name. Amen