I found this in a book entitled "Samuel Adams: Father of the American Revolution" by Mark Puls. I thought it was fitting. The following except takes place at the First Continental Congress. '[Samuel]Adams knew that many in the Congress mistrusted Massachusetts on religious grounds. Massachusetts Puritans had historically been intolerant of various sects, especially the Anglican Church, which was popular in several southern colonies. Adams had written in opposition to the establishment of an episcopate of the English church in America because it would strengthen British authority. When the Continental Congress opened, Adams directed Thomas Cushing to make a motion that proceedings begin each morning with a prayer. John Jay of New York immediately rose in protest, followed by Edward Rutledge of South Carolina. The colonies were divided into at least five religious denominations: Anglicans in the South; Quakers in Pennsylvania; and Anabaptists, Presbyterians, and Congregationalists throughout. Jay, a religious man, objected that the delegates could not share a common prayer with such a variety of faiths. Adams drew curious looks as he rose to speak. He knew he had to somehow clarify his views. He declared before the delegates that he was no religious bigot and would bow in prayer with any pious, virtuous supplicant who loved his country.'