[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 62 (Thursday, May 6, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E772]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

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                            HON. TODD TIAHRT

                               of kansas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 6, 2004

  Mr. TIAHRT. Mr. Speaker, today marks the 2004 National Day of 
Prayer--a day set aside by millions of people across this country to 
acknowledge God and give him thanks for all that is truly good. Once 
again, we are reminded of our need for him in the midst of turmoil and 
suffering around the world, and we recall our need to listen and hear 
from the Almighty.
  Right now there are thousands of young men and women in uniform who 
are bravely serving this country in Iraq, Afghanistan and in other 
foreign countries. We ask God to protect them and grant them favor. We 
ask God to comfort their families and loved ones who eagerly await 
their return. Let us continue to pray for peace in these lands and for 
reconciliation among its people.
  Throughout American history--from the earliest settlers to the 
Continental Congress, from General George Washington to President 
George W. Bush--the American people have called upon the Providence of 
God.
  In 1775, the Continental Congress issued a proclamation setting aside 
a day of prayer. In 1952, Congress established an annual day of prayer, 
and then in 1988, the law was amended designating the National Day of 
Prayer as the first Thursday in May.
  Our country has witnessed the benefits of national prayer and fasting 
in times past, and I hope citizens from all walks of life will humbly 
acknowledge God and seek his guidance, strength and resolve.
  Let us remember to pray for our President, his Cabinet, military 
leaders, Members of Congress, Supreme Court Justices, State governors 
and local officials.
  And may we, like our Founding Fathers, earnestly seek to know God's 
will for us and our country on this national day of prayer.

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