State of Rhode Island and Providence

Plantations

GUBERNATORIAL PROCLAMATION

Whereas, John Adams wrote, “The general principles on which the fathers achieved independence were…the general principles of Christianity.” (Letter to Thomas Jefferson, June 28, 1813); and,

Whereas, Noah Webster taught, “The religion which has introduced civil liberty is the religion of Christ and His Apostles…This is genuine Christianity and to this we owe our free constitutions of government.” (History of the United States, 1832, public school textbook.); and,

Whereas, Thomas Jefferson warned, “Can the liberties of a nation be thought secure when we have removed heir only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of people that these liberties are the gift of God?” (Notes on the State of Virginia, 1781.); and

Whereas, James Madison proclaimed, “And to the same Divine Author of every good and perfect gift we are indebted for all those privileges and advantages, religious as well as civil, which as so richly enjoyed in his favored land.” (Presidential Proclamation, 1815.); and,

Whereas, Benjamin Rush encouraged, “Let the children…be carefully instructed in the principles and obligations of the Christian religion. This is the most essential part of education.” (A Plan for Free Schools, 1787.); and

Whereas, George Washington exhorted, “We ought to be no less persuaded that the propitious smiles of Heaven can never be expected on a nation which disregards the eternal rules of order and right which Heaven itself has ordained.” (“Inaugural Address”, April 30,1789.); and,

Whereas, Commemorating America’s Christian heritage provides an opportunity for those choosing to participate to thank God for His “Blessings of Liberty”, to ask His help in reinsuring “domestic Tranquility”, and to recognize our national need to reaffirm our “reliance on the protection of divine Providence” in keeping America a “Free and Independent” Nation;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, LINCOLN ALMOND, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF RHODE ISLAND AND PROVIDENCE PLANTATIONS, DO HEREBY PROCLAIM, November 21 – 27, 1999 as America’s Christian Heritage Week in the State of Rhode Island and encourage all of its citizens to join me in this nationwide celebration of America’s Christian heritage.

In recognition whereof I have hereby set my hand and caused the Seal of the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations to be hereunto affixed this 21^st day of November, 1999.

Lincoln Almond

Governor

James R. Langevin

Secretary of State