By Andrew Carlson, Executive Director and Chaplain, Capitol Culture
A capitol prayer room is a quiet space inside the statehouse where legislators, staff and visitors can pray during session. Oklahoma has one, and it is one of the most meaningful things in the building. Starting one in your state is simpler than most people think.
Why a prayer room matters
Session is loud. Phones, hallways, floor debate and deadlines leave little room to think, let alone pray. A prayer room offers a few minutes of stillness — for a member before a hard vote, a staffer on a long day, or a group praying for the state. It belongs to no party and no faction.
Step 1: Find a sponsor inside the building
In Oklahoma, a prayer room only needs one House member or Senator to sign off and reserve the room. Rules differ by state, so start by asking a legislator you know how room reservations work in your capitol.
Step 2: Keep it open to all
Attendance should always be free and open. Post simple hours, keep the room quiet, and make clear it is for anyone who wants to pray.
Step 3: Bring in praying people
A room is only a room until people pray in it. Recruit churches and individuals to cover set hours during session. In Oklahoma, churches are partnering to support the Capitol Prayer Room and to pray for leaders by name.
Step 4: Cover the small costs
Some rooms need furniture, printed prayer guides or refreshments. Sponsorship can help, but it should always be optional and never a condition of attending.
Step 5: Pray for leaders by name
Give people a guide. Capitol Culture's free 31-day guides organize prayer by office and role, so anyone can pray for a specific leader each day.
We can help
Capitol Culture wants to see a prayer room in every state capitol. If you'd like to start one in your state, contact us. To start praying today, get a free guide at capitolculture.com/pray.