STATE OF NEW YORK

EXECUTIVE CHAMBER

The Christian faith has been historically documented as a foundational influence on the inception, formation, structure and culture of our nation. Our Founding Fathers believed that obedience to a Sovereign Lord was imperative in order for our nation to prosper and endure.

The Christian heritage is visible in the lives and accomplishments of such notable Americans as George Washington, John Hancock, John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, William Bradford, Abigail Adams, Noah Webster, Abraham Lincoln and Woodrow Wilson. The Christian influence upon the entire world is likewise profound, to the extent that we reckon time from the moment of the birth of the Son of God.

It is important that our children learn the complete history of our country, including its Christian heritage and the impact of Christianity from the time of our nation’s establishment to present day. It is fitting that we join in acknowledging the past and present relevance of Christianity in the formation of our country and in many facets of American life as we know it.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, George E. Pataki, Governor of the State of New York, do hereby recognize November 24 – 30, 1996 as CHRISTIAN HERITAGE WEEK in the Empire State.

George E. Pataki,

GOVERNOR