Rice told Southern Baptists that she prays daily and comes from a family of Presbyterian ministers. She thanked them for their moral leadership and compassion to others across the globe.
"Southern Baptists are living out their faith in countless ways. No man, no woman, no child is beyond the reach of your compassion," Rice said.
The diplomat said she also was grateful for their prayers and before she left, messengers offered up a prayer for her.
Rice's presentation and the warm response she received from about 11,500 Southern Baptist messengers stirred the emotions of Oklahoman Dulcie Summers.
"I think it's really encouraging to see a woman of faith in such a leadership position. I thought it was great that our convention prayed for her," said Summers, whose husband, Aaron, is pastor of First Baptist Church of Perry.
Rice touched on religion and spirituality throughout her message, but the essence of her speech was the important role America has played and still must play in defending democracy around the world.
"The president and I believe the United States must be engaged in matters beyond our borders," she said.
"We in America are blessed with lives of tremendous liberty. America embodies these liberties, but it does not own them."
Defending the ideals of freedom also include religious liberty, Rice said. She said she sat in a Christian church in China and marveled at the congregation's courage in spite of the constant threat of persecution.
"If America does not rally ... then I ask you, who will?" Rice said, prompting the first of four standing ovations.
"Religious freedom demands moral clarity. Government has no right to stand between the individual and the Almighty."
Rice stood firm on America's war on terrorism, though she admitted that it has been a tough battle to fight.
"It has been far more difficult than we thought it would be," she said. "It's especially hard when we remember our men and women in uniform who have made the ultimate sacrifice."
Rice said there is hope.
"When possible, we are bringing terrorists to justice, and when necessary, we are bringing justice to the terrorists."
