Benedict recounted how when he was asked to be pope eight years ago, he had prayed for God's guidance.

CNN: Big crowds gather for Benedict's final papal audience

He asked a federal judge to intervene and block references of God or religion in the formal ceremonies.

CNN: Obama wants to invoke God during inauguration oath

Just before the march set off, the marchers were led in prayer by their chaplain, who asked God to intervene on their side and restore what he called their civil liberties.

BBC: Drumcree's hill of 'uneasy calm'

While McCain is occasionally asked about the subject, he remains quiet on specifics -- and rarely talks unprompted about either God or guns on the stump.

CNN: 'Bittergate' sparks new look at candidates and guns