The Best and Surest Foundation?

The First Continental Congress took place in Carpenters’ Hall in fall 1774, with 56 delegates from 12 colonies setting the stage for American independence. Among their first decisions was to request an opening invocation from Rev. Jacob Duche, the rector of Christ Church. Duche’s rousing invocation set a precedent for Congressional prayer that continues to this day. Now, 250 years later, leaders from some of Philadelphia’s most historic congregations will explore the role faith played in the Revolution and its place in contemporary American democracy. Join us for this provocative interfaith dialogue that will provide new insight into a fundamental tenet of American civic culture.

Historical context provided by John Fea, professor of history at Messiah University and author of Was America Founded as a Christian Nation

Presented in partnership with the Dialogue Institute.

Discussion faciliated by David Krueger of the Dialogue Institute. Participating faith leaders include:

Christie Duncan-Tessmer, Philadelphia Yearly Meeting (representing Arch Street Meeting House)

Rev. Jason Ferris, Old Pine Presbyterian

Father Frank Hannafey, Old St. Joseph Church

Rev. Sarah Hedgis-Kligerman, St. Peter’s Episcopal Church

Imam Anwar Muhaimin, Masjid Quba

Rabbi Nathan Kamesar, Society Hill Synagogue

Rev. Dr. Christopher Micklewright, Gloria Dei/Old Swedes’

Rev. Mark Kelly Tyler, Mother Bethel AME

Rev. Samantha Vincent-Alexander, Christ Church