September 6, 1774 - First Continental Congress Opens in Prayer

When the First Continental Congress met on September 6, 1774, its first official act was to open the session in prayer. However, soon-to-be Supreme Court Chief Justice John Jay felt this was inappropriate because of the growing number of religions in the colonies. Despite his concern, Jay was outvoted and the delegates called on an Episcopal priest named Jacob Duche’ to offer the prayer. Though many delegates praised him for the prayer and support of the new nation, Duche’ later switched sides and remained loyal to the King of England.