John Adams' letter to wife about Pastor Duche's prayer 1774 America's Godly Heritage Video 1

Questions and Answers

John Adams

Mr. Duche

The Province of Massachusetts Bay

Admiration and respect Signup and view all the answers

Family member Signup and view all the answers

Mr. Cushing Signup and view all the answers

Because of the diverse religious backgrounds of the members Signup and view all the answers

Mr. Duche, an Episcopal clergyman Signup and view all the answers

The Collect for the seventh day of September, which was the Thirty fifth Psalm Signup and view all the answers

He struck out into an extemporary prayer Signup and view all the answers

Because it followed the news of the Boston cannonade Signup and view all the answers

Mr. Randolph Signup and view all the answers

The next morning after the Congress assembled Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

The Continental Congress met in Philadelphia on September 16, 1774.
Mr. Cushing proposed that the Congress begin with prayer, but Mr. Jay of New York and Mr. Rutledge of South Carolina opposed the idea due to diversified religious sentiments among the members.

Mr. Samuel Adams suggested that Mr. Duche, an Episcopal clergyman, be invited to read prayers to the Congress.
Mr. Duche accepted the invitation and read prayers, including the 35th Psalm, on the morning of the next day.

The prayer had a profound effect on the audience, especially given the recent news of the Boston cannonade.
Mr. Duche's extemporary prayer was remarkable for its fervor, ardor, and eloquence, and it had a unifying effect on the Congress.

Mr. Duche was a highly respected Episcopal clergyman, known for his ingenuity, good character, and oratory skills.
Despite being an Episcopalian, Mr. Duche was a strong supporter of liberty and his country.