The Best and Surest Foundation?

Faith and Democracy and the Legacy of the First Prayer in Congress

The First Continental Congress took place in Carpenters’ Hall in fall 1774, with 56 delegates from 12 colonies setting the stage for American independence. Among their first decisions was to request an opening invocation from Rev. Jacob Duche, the rector of Christ Church. Duche’s rousing invocation set a precedent for Congressional prayer that continues to this day. Now, 250 years later, leaders from some of Philadelphia’s most historic congregations will explore the role faith played in the Revolution and its place in contemporary American democracy. Join us for this provocative interfaith dialogue that will provide new insight into a fundamental tenet of American civic culture.

Historical context provided by John Fea, professor of history at Messiah University and author of Was America Founded as a Christian Nation

Presentred in partnership with the Dialogue Institute.

Participating faith leaders include:
Christie Duncan-Tessmer, Philadelphia Yearly Meeting (representing Arch Street Meeting House)
Rev. Jason Ferris, Old Pine Presbyterian
Father Frank Hannafey, Old St. Joseph Church
Rev. Sarah Hedgis-Kligerman, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
Imam Anwar Muhaimin, Masjid Quba
Rabbi Nathan Kamesar, Society Hill Synagogue
Rev. Dr. Christopher Micklewright, Gloria Dei/Old Swedes’
Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler, Mother Bethel AME
Rev. Samantha Vincent-Alexander, Christ Church

Join us at Carpenters’ Hall on Saturday, September 7, from 11:00-11:30AM for a free public reading of Rev. Duche’s 1774 invocation and prayer on its actual 250th anniversary.