Benjamin Franklin described the crucial role prayer played in the formative days of the American nation: “In the beginning of the Contest with Britain, when we were sensible of danger we had daily prayer in this room for the divine protection. Our prayers, Sir, were heard—and they were graciously answered. All of us who were engaged in the struggle must have observed frequent instances of a superintending providence in our favor. … I have lived, Sir, a long time, and the longer I live, the more convincing proofs I see of this truth—that God Governs in the affairs of men” (“Motion for Prayers in the Convention,” 1138).