The Billy Graham Inaugural Prayer 1969 Washington DC revealed the spiritual heartbeat of America during a time of upheaval. On January 20, 1969, evangelist Billy Graham prayed at the inauguration of President Richard Nixon. His words sought God’s wisdom and blessing as the nation faced war abroad and division at home.
Often called “America’s Pastor,” Graham had a unique ability to speak to presidents and ordinary citizens alike. His prayer at the inauguration lifted the eyes of the nation above politics to the God who rules all.
The Prayer (Excerpt, Jan. 20, 1969)
“Our Father and our God, Thou hast said, ‘Blessed is that nation whose God is the Lord.’ We recognize on this historic occasion that we are ‘a nation under God.’ We thank Thee for this great land, its wealth, its power, and its natural resources. We thank Thee for the heritage of our forefathers — a heritage of faith in God. We thank Thee for the Church and the spiritual foundations upon which our nation rests. And we pray, O God, as Thou hast instructed us, for those in authority — the President of the United States, that Thou wouldst give him wisdom, courage, and strength.”
Graham’s prayer carried the authority of Scripture and the compassion of a shepherd, pointing the nation to its true source of strength.
Historic Backstory
The late 1960s were a time of deep turmoil: the Vietnam War, racial unrest, and cultural upheaval. Against this backdrop, Nixon’s inauguration marked a turning point. Having advised every president since Harry Truman, Billy Graham was chosen to lead the nation in prayer at this pivotal moment.
The Billy Graham Inaugural Prayer 1969 Washington DC revealed a conviction that America’s survival depended not on politics but on God’s blessing.
Biblical Parallel — Praying for Leaders
Paul wrote in 1 Timothy 2:1–2: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people — for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.”
Graham’s prayer echoed this biblical command, reminding Americans of their responsibility to pray for their leaders.
Modern Application — America’s Need for Prayerful Leadership
In a time when politics often divides us, Billy Graham’s example still calls us to pray for our leaders — whether or not we agree with them. Prayer lifts us above partisanship and aligns us with God’s will.
The National Prayer Wall continues this mission, ZIP Code by ZIP Code, lifting leaders, families, and communities before the Lord.
Visit Washington, DC Today
The prayer was offered at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC (ZIP Code 20004). Today, visitors can stand at the same site on the Capitol steps, reflecting on how Graham’s words invited the nation to turn to God.
📍 This prayer took place in Washington, DC 20004.
And just 32 years later, in 2001, President George W. Bush would call the nation to prayer in the wake of the 9/11 attacks.
Read about President Bush’s National Prayer →
Reference Prayers and Proclamations: Historic Prayers in American Life (White House PDF)