Tennessee Declares Itself a 'Meeting Place' with God

Governor Bill Lee signs resolution making the state the first to recognize an extended prayer period.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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On May 2, 2025, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee signed House Joint Resolution 0051, establishing an ongoing 'Pray4TN' movement and making Tennessee the first state in the nation to recognize an extended period for prayer and religious observance.

Why it matters

The resolution is part of a broader effort by conservative Christian groups to promote prayer and religious values in the public sphere, raising questions about the separation of church and state.

The details

The resolution calls for Tennesseans to dedicate the month of May each year as a time for prayer, fasting, and religious observance, with the goal of making Tennessee a 'meeting place' between the state's residents and God.

  • On May 2, 2025, Governor Bill Lee signed House Joint Resolution 0051.
  • The resolution establishes an annual prayer period during the month of May.

The players

Bill Lee

The current Governor of Tennessee, who signed the resolution establishing the annual prayer period.

House Joint Resolution 0051

The legislative resolution that made Tennessee the first state to recognize an extended prayer period.

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What they’re saying

“We must make Tennessee a place where people can come and meet with God.”

— Bill Lee, Governor of Tennessee (timesnews.net)

What’s next

The resolution is expected to face legal challenges from civil liberties groups who argue it violates the separation of church and state.

The takeaway

This move by Tennessee's conservative leadership highlights the ongoing debate over the role of religion in public life, with proponents arguing for greater religious expression and critics concerned about the erosion of secular governance.