On June 25, 1962, the Supreme Court had just declared prayer in the schools unconstitutional. Sen. Robert Byrd of West Virginia, respected for his Bible leadership and member of Congress, was deeply moved.

Two days later, he delivered an address to his colleagues. Byrd reminded them of the Christian symbolism throughout their own city. Byrd led Congress on a tour.

In the Capitol, every session begins with prayer. Each house has its own chaplain. The 83rd Congress set aside a small room in the Capitol for private prayer/meditation of members of Congress. A stained-glass window shows George Washington kneeling in prayer. Behind him is etched, “Preserve me, O God for in Thee do I put my trust” (Psalm 16:1).