[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 144 (Thursday, October 6, 1994)]
[Senate]
[Page S]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: October 6, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                          NATIONAL BIBLE WEEK

  Mr. NUNN. Mr. President, I rise today to call the attention of the 
Senate to the approach of National Bible Week November 20-27. That week 
is especially appropriate because it includes America's only 
nonsectarian religious holiday, Thanksgiving.
  National Bible Week is sponsored by the Laymen's National Bible 
Association, an interfaith, nonsectarian organization of business and 
professional men and women formed for the sole purpose of encouraging 
Americans to appreciate our Nation's religious heritage. The 
association has no formal ties with any religious body, but enjoys the 
support of prominent Americans from all fields and from a wide range of 
denominations and faith groups, as well as secular groups.
  While our people include adherents of most of the faith groups from 
around the world, the Bible is the primary sacred text of the majority 
of religious Americans. It has had a significant impact on our culture 
and our beliefs in equal justice and equal opportunity for all, and on 
the lives and thought of many of our wisest leaders.
  This will be the 54th annual National Bible Week. Out of respect for 
the Constitution and the separation of church and state, the 
association has never sought a Presidential proclamation or a 
resolution from Congress. Over the years, many of our local, State, and 
national leaders have strongly supported National Bible Week, however. 
President Clinton, as Honorary Chairman, has issued a statement 
encouraging all Americans to read the Bible often and to make it an 
important part of their lives.
  I am honored to serve as congressional co-chairman this year--
Congressman James Inhofe serves with me from the House. Governor Evan 
Bayh of Indiana is serving as chairman of the Governors and Mayor P.J. 
Morgan of Omaha is chairman of the mayors. Public service announcements 
and special observances in 7,500 communities mark National Bible Week.
  Many Americans are concerned about violence, religious intolerance, 
and family breakdown, and feel there is a general erosion of our moral 
and ethical standards as a nation. The Bible reminds us of the 
challenges others have faced since ancient times, and of the ageless 
principles of courage, compassion, integrity, and steadfast faith that 
have guided and sustained them. I encourage my colleagues, and all 
Americans, to drink deeply from the fountain of its wisdom during 
National Bible Week in November.

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