WASHINGTON, DC, USA, January 22, 2009: President Obama began his first full day in office yesterday with a broad collection of American faith leaders praying with him and for him at Washington National Cathedral in a worship service crafted specially to reflect his interest in religious diversity.
Rabbis in yarmulkes, Catholic bishops in magenta vestments, Protestant pastors in suits, and Hindu and Muslim leaders in colorful garb — 20 prominent religious leaders in all — participated as Obama sat in the front pew flanked by his wife, Michelle, and Vice President Biden and his wife, Jill. The number and mix of clergy at this year’s National Prayer Service might have been the largest and most diverse, historians said. The service dates in some form to George Washington’s inauguration and traditionally has marked the end of the ceremonies surrounding an incoming president.