FAITH OF THE FOUNDERS: John Jay’s Thankful Last Will and Testament
(QUICK READ) — John Jay was one of the authors, with Alexander Hamilton and James Madison, of The Federalist Papers, which was absolutely essential to the successful effort to secure approval of the then-proposed Constitution by New York and Virginia. Without either of those states, the Constitution would likely have failed to gain adoption.
John Jay
Jay then went on to become the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Jay was a key participant in multiple events and decisions that were crucial to the development of the American constitutional republic.
Jay was also an articulate, passionate advocate on behalf of Christianity, as is well-illustrated in this passage from his lengthy Last Will and Testament. Interesting, is it not, that so few of the founders’ last wills are known to us today?
“Unto Him who is the author and giver of all good, I render sincere and humble thanks for His manifold and unmerited blessings, and especially for our redemption and salvation by His beloved Son. He has been pleased to bless me with excellent parents, with a virtuous wife, and with worthy children.
“His protection has accompanied me through many eventful years, faithfully employed in the service of my country; His providence has not only conducted me to this tranquil situation but also given me abundant reason to be contented and thankful. Blessed be His holy name! – John Jay, one of the authors of the Federalist Papers and the First Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, in his Last Will and Testament. Cited by Mark Strand.
Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States of America.
Many of the quotes reprinted in HillFaith’s “The Faith of The Founders” weekly series of posts are compiled from Benjamin F. Morris’ classic work, “The Christian Life and Character of the Civil Institutions of the United States.” Morris, an historian and pastor, published the first edition more than a century ago.
Quotations are also compiled from Mark Strand, author of the Daily Inspirations email he shares on request here and that HillFaith highly recommends to all congressional aides, be they working on Capitol Hill or in a state or district office back home.
Mark was for 16 years President of the Congressional Institute, and he is a former fellow of the Harvard Institute of Politics. He was also a 24-year veteran congressional staffer, including four years as Chief of Staff to Sen. James Talent (R-Missouri).