The prayer of the first President of the United States

George Washington was a Virginian by birth and a highly respected gentleman of the Christian faith. He served with bravery as Commander in Chief of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War for Independence. Following the war, he was honored by being elected as America’s first president and served as president from 1789-1797. Our nation’s capital is named in his honor as is the tall monument that bears his name and overlooks our capital city. 

Washington’s prayer for the nation in 1783 attests to his Christian faith, and is printed in the Army and Navy Hymnal of 1942. Here is Washington’s prayer:

“Almightly God, we make our earnest prayer that thou wilt keep the United States in thy holy protection, that thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government, and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States at large. 

And finally that thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristic of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without a humble imitation of who example in these things, we can never hope to he a happy nation. 

Grant our supplications, we beseech thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen” (written in Newburg, June 8, 1783, and sent to the governors of all the states). 

Of all the past respected men and woman of America, this gentleman stands tall in the long line of America’s admired citizens. He was a dedicated soldier-citizen, Christian and statesman who served well his country. All Americans are indebted to his leadership in young America. Yes, he heads the list of America’s past presidents who were professing and practicing Christians. 

In closing, Washington, as Commander of the Continental Army, requested in July 1775 chaplains (clergy in uniform) to serve and accompany the soldiers. Chaplains continue to serve the men, women in uniform and their families, wherever in the world they are serving America. 

Peace!