Since Washington took his oath 220 years ago, presidents have avoided mentioning Jesus by name, walking a fine line between embracing their faith without seeming to endorse one religion over another.
This balancing act has given rise to a whole genre of euphemisms. Among them: Divine Author (James Monroe), Almighty Power (William Henry Harrison) and Divine Being (Martin Van Buren).
According to the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, almost all presidential inaugural addresses have included some reference to God. The only exception: Washington's second address, which was only 135 words.
Early in his first inaugural address during the Great Depression, Roosevelt sought to reassure jittery citizens with his famous phrase, "The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." Yet, at the end of the address, he also publicly sought the intervention of a higher source.
"In this dedication of a nation we humbly ask the blessing of God," he told the country. "May he protect each and every one of us. May he guide me in the days to come."
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duke.helfand@latimes.com
