Prayer has always been an important part of faith, but generally it’s something done behind closed doors or within the walls of a church. In the last few months though, prayer made the jump from a Sunday morning ritual to a fixture of public events and major media stories.
From the Supreme Court and prime-time TV specials to the White House and social media, here is a look at some of the biggest moments in pop culture during the summer that prayer went public.
The Courtroom
The Supreme Court agreed to hear a case challenging the constitutionality of opening public meetings with prayer.
The Sports Field
After Tim Tebow was cut by the New York Jets, his fans’ prayers were answered when he was signed by The New England Patriots.
The News
A South Carolina high school valedictorian ripped up his pre-approved graduation speech on stage and recited the Lord’s Prayer.
Prime-Time TV
Tightrope walker Nik Wallenda prayed for 22-minutes straight while walking across the Grand Canyon for a live television special.
The Abortion Debate
After regular prayer vigils from pro-life groups, Virginia’s largest abortion clinic closed due to new strict regulations.
Social Media
Sybrina Fulton, the mother of Trayvon Martin, tweeted prayers for God’s control and covering throughout the Zimmerman trial.
