Lawmakers passed a resolution urging the president to set aside a day of fasting and prayer for divine protection of US troops in Iraq and a population threatened by iraqi regime."A day of fasting and prayer is needed to secure the blessings and protection of Providence for the people of the United States and our Armed Forces during the conflict in Iraq and under the threat of terrorismat home," read the text of the resolution.

The House of Representatives passed the resolution by a vote of 346 for, 49 against and 23 abstentions. The Senate passed a similar measure on March 17.

The two chambers of the US Congress both noted in their resolutions that similar appeals had been launched during difficult moments of the nation's history.

In 1863, during the American Civil War, president Abraham Lincoln urged the nation "to humble itself before God in repentance for its national sins."

Politicians in the United States make frequent religious references, often ending speeches with the phrase "God bless America."

President George W. Bush , a born-again Christian, said early this month that he prays daily for peace.

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Congress calls on Bush, seen hugging a soldier, to fast and pray for divine protection for US troops(AFP/File/Luke Frazza)