Major-General Benjamin F. Butler: General Orders, No. 27, May 13, 1862

GENERAL ORDERS, No. 27.}

HDQRS. DEPARTMENT OF THE GULF,            

New Orleans, May 13, 1862.

It having come to the knowledge of the commanding general that Friday next is proposed to be observed as a day of fasting and prayer, in obedience to some supposed proclamation of one Jefferson Davis, in the several churches of this city, it is ordered that no such observance be had. "Churches and religious houses are to be kept open as in time of profound peace," but no religious exercises are to be had upon the supposed authority above mentioned.

By command of Major-General Butler:

GEO. C. STRONG,               

Assistant Adjutant-General.

SOURCE: The War of the Rebellion: A Compilation of the Official Records of the Union and Confederate Armies, Series I, Volume 15 (Serial No. 21), p. 426