[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 144 (Thursday, October 21, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2165]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     PRAY FOR THE CHILDREN WEEKEND

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JUDY BIGGERT

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 21, 1999

  Mrs. BIGGERT. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to recognize an effort 
sponsored by the Illinois Drug Education Alliance and others to raise 
awareness of and unite people against the dangers of illegal drug use. 
This effort, known as Pray for the Children, is a grassroots movement 
to keep children drug-free and safe through faith and community 
involvement.
  The second annual ``Pray for the Children Weekend'' is this weekend, 
October 22, 23, and 24. This is a time for people all across the world 
to take a moment to reflect and pray for children to avoid the pitfalls 
of illegal drug use. It is also a time for families, religious 
institutions and political leaders to come together to keep children 
drug free and safe.
  We are all aware of the devastating impact illicit drug use has on 
our society, particularly on young people. Illicit drug use is 
something we all understand must be addressed and overcome. While 
saying a prayer is not the sole answer to the drug problem, it is part 
of a larger solution that demands community involvement and 
responsibility for one's own actions.
  I encourage those listening to participate in this effort and urge my 
colleagues to wear the red ``Pray for the Children'' ribbons that have 
been sent to their offices. The Ribbons and this campaign symbolize 
what members of this body and those around the world should be 
promoting--a zero tolerance for illegal drug use and a commitment to a 
drug-free lifestyle.

                          ____________________