Election Prayer Vigil

November 5-6, 2024

Praying for the Nation with the Cathedral

As the sacred ground where the nation gathers for prayer at pivotal moments in our life together, the Cathedral will be open for prayer and meditation on Election Day as votes are cast, and on the day after as votes are counted.

These opportunities for prayer are part of the Cathedral’s A Better Way initiative.

Tuesday, Nov. 5

The Cathedral nave will be open for private prayer and meditation from 7 am to 10 pm. Clergy will offer prayers during the Election Day Prayer Vigil between 8 am and 9 pm, including four special services. Click to learn more and access livestreams:

wednesday, nov. 6

The Cathedral will open for private prayer and meditation from 7 am to 6 pm. A Service of Unity and Hope after an Election will be offered at 12 pm eastern.

A Better Way

special initiative
This election season, we are seeking "A Better Way" forward — rooted in grace, nurtured by love, and fueled by compassion. We may not always agree, but we can find ways to treat each other with decency and generosity of spirit. We invite you to join us in finding that better way of being — together. learn more

Morning Prayer

Nov. 5 • 8 am eastern
The service of Morning Prayer includes readings, psalms, prayers and hymns, offering a meditative and intentional beginning to Election Day. American Sign Language interpretation is provided.

During the service, the livestream’s chat will be open for opportunities to engage and pray. Following the service, the livestream will continue until approximately 11:45 am as Cathedral clergy offer prayers.

Interfaith Noonday Prayer Service for the Nation

Nov. 5 • 12 pm eastern
Bringing together representatives of the Christian, Jewish and Muslim faiths, the service offers prayers, readings and music. The Election Day Prayer Vigil will be anchored in our shared hopes for safety, a free and fair election, and the peaceful transfer of power.

Music is provided by the Cathedral Choir and the Cathedral Contemporary Ensemble. American Sign Language interpretation is also provided.

During the service, the livestream’s chat will be open for opportunities to engage and pray. Following the service, the livestream will continue until approximately 4:45 pm as Cathedral clergy offer prayers.

Evening Prayer and Compline

Nov. 5 • 5 pm and 8:45 pm eastern
Starting at 5 pm, the service of Evening Prayer includes readings, psalms, prayers and hymns, offering an opportunity for reflection and reassurance in the midst of Election Day.  The service of Compline includes readings, psalms and prayer, offering an opportunity for contemplation and hope as Election Day draws to a close. American Sign Language interpretation is provided for both services.

During each service, the livestream’s chat will be open for opportunities to engage and pray.

A Service of Unity and Hope after an Election

Nov. 6 • 12 pm eastern
Gathering in prayer and song as we prepare for what could be a protracted season of uncertainty, we lift our voices in hope as we pray for fair elections, the peaceful transfer of power, and the safety and well-being of the nation and our leaders. Music is provided by the Cathedral Choir and the Cathedral Contemporary Ensemble. American Sign Language interpretation is also provided.

During the service, the livestream’s chat will be open for opportunities to engage and pray.