Aim for restoration, comfort one another, agree with one another, live in peace. – 2 Corinthians 13:11
The Library of Congress was born on this day in 1800 when Congress received President John Adams’ approval to appropriate $5,000 to purchase “such books as may be necessary for the use of Congress.” The library has continued to operate since then and serves as the national library of the United States, and the oldest cultural institution in the country. Unfortunately, the majority of the original collection was destroyed in fires set by the British army during the War of 1812. However, the library recovered and has become a collection of 25 million books, 15.5 million printed items, 4.2 million recordings, 74.5 million manuscripts, 5.6 million maps, and 8.2 million pieces of sheet music. As you pray today, ask for God to guide the librarian of Congress in stewarding the institution.
As the Lord leads, pray with us…
- For Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden as she oversees the collection of the nation’s documents.
- For members of Congress as they craft and consider legislation and conduct investigations.
