[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 165 (Friday, November 19, 1999)]
[Senate]
[Page S15149]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                IN COMMEMORATION OF NATIONAL BIBLE WEEK

 Mr. LIEBERMAN. Mr. President, the week of Nov. 21-28 is an 
important time for houses of worship and individuals of all religions 
across the country--National Bible Week.
  As this year's National Bible Week co-chair, it is my privilege to 
pay tribute to the Bible and its remarkable influence on American life. 
As in past years, the National Bible Association is hosting the week-
long salute to the Good Book. This year, the tribute happens to fall 
during the Thanksgiving holidays; this seems fitting, because we should 
be eternally thankful that we have the teachings of the Bible to help 
guide our daily lives.
  And old maxim states that ``A reformation happens every time you open 
the Bible.'' Indeed, no book over the course of human history has had a 
more profound effect on how we live and act. The Bible has influenced 
Western culture in myriad ways, shaping areas as diverse as government 
and art.
  John Wycliffe, the great religious reformer, once wrote, ``The Bible 
is for the government of the people, by the people, and for the 
people.'' The writings found within it inspired many of our nation's 
founders' most cherished ideals--ideals that remain cornerstones of 
democracy today. The Bible, for example, advocates faith in a greater 
good, the glory of freedom, the importance of family, and the sanctity 
of every human life. The Bible is at the heart of America's civic 
religion.
  Far from archaic, the Bible is as important today as it has ever 
been, particularly as many Americans feel this country slipping into 
moral decline. Our best hope of righting our national ship is to 
instill in future generations the core values of love, truth, honor, 
and service enshrined in the Bible.
  As an Orthodox Jew, my faith orders my life, gives me a sense of 
purpose and direction, and provides comfort in uncertain or difficult 
times. The Old Testament or Torah serves as a constant reminder of my 
obligations to God, country, and family.
  So as Thanksgiving approaches, I encourage every believer in this 
land to open the Bible, read a favorite passage or two, and give thanks 
to God for this wonderful, sacred Book.

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