Delaware 1994

STATEMENT

IN OBSERVANCE OF

CHRISTIAN HERITAGE WEEK

Whereas, our Nation was founded on the belief that religious freedom was an inherent right of all citizens; and

Whereas, the Constitution of the State of Delaware states that “Through Divine Goodness, all men have by nature the rights of worshiping and serving their Creator according to the dictates of their consciences…”; and

Whereas, the Continental Congress on September 11, 1777, approved and recommended to the people that 20,000 copies of The Holy Bible be imported from other sources. This was in response to the shortage of Bibles in America caused by the Revolutionary War interrupting trade with England; and

Whereas, Alexis de Tocqueville (1805-1859), a famous French statesman, historian and social philosopher toured America. He published, Democracy in America, described as “the most comprehensive and penetrating analysis of the relationship between character and society in America that has ever been written.” In it he related: “Upon my arrival in the United States the religious aspect of the country was the first thing that struck my attention; and the longer I stayed there, the more I perceived the great political consequences resulting from this new state of things. In France I had almost always seen the spirit of religion and the spirit of freedom marching in opposite directions. But in America I found they were intimately united and that they reigned in common over the same country. Religion in America…must be regarded as the foremost of the political institutions of that country; for it it does not impart a taste for freedom, it facilitates the use of it. Indeed, it is in this same point of view that the inhabitants of the United States themselves look upon religious belief. I do not know whether all Americans have a sincere faith in their religion—for who can search the human heart?—But I am certain that they hold it to be indispensable to the maintenance of republican institutions”; and

Whereas, in 1939, George Washington Carver was awarded the Roosevelt Medal, with the declaration: “To a scientist humbly seeking the guidance of God and a liberator to men of the white race as well as the black.” To which George Washington Carver remarked: “The secret of my success? It is simple. It is found in the Bible, ‘In all thy ways acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths.’ (Prov.3:6)”; and

Whereas, these facts give evidence that throughout the history of America our country was guided by men and women who relied on their religious beliefs for guidance, strength and comfort.

Now, Therefore, We, Thomas R. Carper, Governor, and Ruth Ann Minner, Lieutenant Governor, of the State of Delaware do hereby declare November 20-26, 1994, as: CHRISTIAN HERITAGE WEEK in the State of Delaware, and urge all citizens to recognize the importance of this event.