Earlier this week, President Biden issued a proclamation on the National Day of Prayer much like his predecessors. Unlike his predecessors, Biden left out the word “God” in his proclamation.
During his proclamation, Biden mentioned Americans’ “many religions and belief systems” as well as “the power of prayer.”
“Throughout our history, Americans of many religions and belief systems have turned to prayer for strength, hope and guidance,” Biden’s proclamation reads.
“Prayer has nourished countless souls and powered moral movements – including essential fights against racial injustice, child labor and infringement on the rights of disabled Americans. Prayer is also a daily practice for many, whether it is to ask for help or strength, or to give thanks over blessings bestowed.”
Previous President Trump mentioned God 11 times in his final proclamation in 2020 with none of his proclamations mentioning God less than five times. While Biden didn’t include “God” himself in his proclamation, Biden did say the vaccine was developed “by the grace of God.” Former President Barack Obama mentioned God twice in his 2011 proclamation. Each year the National Day of Prayer occurs on the first Thursday of May. Last year the National Day of Prayer went virtual due to the COVID pandemic.