[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 56 (Thursday, May 7, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E799]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                         NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

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                        HON. WILLIAM O. LIPINSKI

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 7, 1998

  Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the National Day 
of Prayer, which takes place this year on Thursday, May 7th. This 
unique annual observance offers an opportunity for all Americans to 
join together in prayer.
  The National Day of Prayer has been celebrated annually ever since 
its introduction in 1952 by Congress. In 1988, the National Day of 
Prayer was set on the first Thursday of each May. For over 45 years, 
the National Day of Prayer has been an occasion for countless Americans 
to give thanks for their blessings and ask for God's assistance.
  The theme of this year's National Day of Prayer is ``America, Return 
to God.'' It is a theme that is undoubtedly shared by Americans of all 
faiths. One of the most important values promoted by the National Day 
of Prayer is unity among people of different faiths. Americans of all 
faiths are encouraged to take time during the day to offer their 
prayers before God.
  The National Day of Prayer is a time to thank God for the many gifts 
and blessings that have been bestowed upon us, individually and as a 
nation. It is also a time to ask for stability and wisdom, and for 
God's guidance today so that we may restore moral values in our 
communities.
  My fellow colleagues, I urge you to join me and Americans from every 
state in praying for America, its leaders, and its people on the 
National Day of Prayer.

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