State: Texas

Texas 2023

H.C.R. No. 29
HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The United States was established on principles of religious freedom, and our founding fathers looked to their faith for blessings and guidance as they worked to build an independent nation with liberty and justice for all; and

WHEREAS, Millions of Americans are adherents of Christianity, and that religious heritage has played a significant role throughout our country ’s history; this influence is documented in government records, including colonial charters, early laws, original state constitutions, and hundreds of state and federal
court cases; and

WHEREAS, Through the centuries, a host of major American historical figures have relied on Christian traditions, tenets, and values to guide their actions and have stressed the importance of those principles when addressing their fellow citizens; such individuals as George Washington, Abigail and John Adams, James Madison, Abraham Lincoln, Harry S. Truman, and Dwight D. Eisenhower drew strength from their Christian beliefs, and these prominent men and women, like countless other Americans, did not hesitate to express their faith; and

WHEREAS, Public officials across the country, at all levels, have acknowledged this meaningful influence through the observance of Christian Heritage Week; the occasion serves to highlight the immeasurable impact of Christianity on our nation, from the fellowship and good works offered by local churches to the respite from life ’s ordinary travails afforded by religious holidays and rituals; the continued vitality of this faith tradition is evidenced by the ongoing proliferation of Christian houses of worship, charities, ministries, missions, and schools; and

WHEREAS, The celebration of Christian Heritage Week provides opportunities for adherents of the religion to more deeply examine its vital role in society and for people of all faiths to learn more about the rich fabric of our nation ’s history; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the 88th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby designate the second to last week in April as Texas Christian Heritage Week; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That, in accordance with the provisions of Section 391.004(d), Government Code, this designation remain in effect until the 10th anniversary of the date this resolution is finally passed by the legislature.

Leo-Wilson Dutton
Leach Sherman, Sr.
Harris of Williamson Cain
Cook Cunningham
Dorazio Hayes
Hefner Isaac
Jetton Patterson
Schatzline Swanson
Tepper Toth
Troxclair Vasut

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H.C.R. No. 29 was adopted by the House on May 9, 2023, by the following vote: Yeas 143, Nays 3, 2 present, not voting.

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H.C.R. No. 29 was adopted by the Senate on May 23, 2023, by the following vote: Yeas 26, Nays 4, 1 present, not voting.

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H.C.R. No. 29 was signed by the Governor on June 11, 2023.

Texas 2022

THE STATE OF TEXAS

GOVERNOR

To all whom these presents shall come, Greeting: Know ye that this official recognition is presented to all observing

Christian Heritage Week

November 20-26, 2022

Centuries ago, our forefathers stood upon the shores of the New World with the express desire to create a free and godly society. From them grew a people who embraced liberty, and the radical experiment in self-government more that a hundred years later was based on this timeless principles of Christianity.

To a great extent, the Enlightenment thinking that paved the way for American democracy was but an outgrowth of ancient Christian thought. An unmistakable Christian Heritage is woven into the history of  our nation in the writings and accomplishments of such renowned Americans as William Bradford, George Washington, Abigail and John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, Patrick Henry, Abraham Lincoln, and countless others. then, as now, Americans have recognized that our rights come not from the state but from the Almighty, and our founders went so far as to declare this truth self-evident and irrefutable. Our founding documents, which enshrine these timeless principles, have served as templates for free societies the world over.

Each year, a week is set aside to acknowledge the impact that Christianity has had on our history. Let us celebrate this proud heritage and renew our commitment to our higher purpose. Faith has made America the strongest, freest and most prosperous society in human history, so as you celebrate Christian Heritage Week, I join you in prayer and thanksgiving.

First Lady Cecilia Abbot joins in wishing you the best.

In testimony whereof, I have signed my name and caused the Seal of the State of Texas to be affixed at the City of Austin, this the 28th day of October, 2022.

Greg Abbott

Governor of Texas

Texas 1992

 

Official Memorandum

State of Texas

Office of the Governor

Our state has been richly blessed in natural beauty, reflecting God’s miracle of creation.

The importance of Christian heritage to the traditions and values of our state is immeasurable.

Religious holidays, festivals, and celebrations have brought welcome respite from weary labor, as well as renewed respect and meaning for nature’s seasons of change.

The community church serves a vital function in binding folks together and providing crucial education and charitable services.

Teaching future generations of our state the all-important role of Christian heritage is of crucial concern to citizens of all faiths.

Therefore, I, Ann W. Richards, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim the week beginning Easter Sunday, April 19 through April 25, 1992, as CHRISTIAN HERITAGE WEEK in Texas and urge the appropriate recognition thereof.

In official recognition whereof I hereby affix my signature this 7th day of April, 1992.

Ann Richards

 Governor of Texas