[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 17]
[Senate]
[Pages 23552-23553]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                          NATIONAL BIBLE WEEK

 Mr. BROWNBACK. Mr. President, I rise today in honor of 
National Bible Week 2004. During the week of November 21-28, 
communities and churches across the United States will participate in 
this annual celebration by reading and reflecting on the teachings of 
the Bible. In doing so, they recognize the Bible's importance in our 
daily lives. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve as Senate Co-
Chairman of National Bible Week this year, and I

[[Page 23553]]

commend the National Bible Association for its sponsorship of this 
yearly tradition.
  The first National Bible Week, organized in 1941, was created as a 
way to extend comfort and hope to our nation during the tumultuous days 
of World War II. Today, our country is again in a time of difficulty. 
As our brave men and women of the Armed Forces continue to fight the 
War on Terror, I call on my fellow Americans to look to God's Word for 
its great inspiration, spiritual guidance, and strength. I pray that 
all Americans, particularly our soldiers and their loved ones, would 
receive ``the peace of God, which transcends all understanding'' 
(Philippians 4:7).
  I believe Americans of all religions and faith backgrounds can find 
wisdom and understanding in the Holy Scriptures. Indeed, the Bible and 
its teachings have greatly influenced my own life. I encourage all 
Americans to read the Bible and consider the wisdom, lessons, and 
traditions that have come to us from it. I congratulate the National 
Bible Association for its dedication to the celebration of the Holy 
Bible.

                          ____________________