Mayoral 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 their only firm basis, a conviction in the minds of the 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 are so richly enjoyed in this 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, Let it be Known that November 18-24, 2001 is hereby proclaimed as:

Christian Heritage Week

in the

City of Ripley, West Virginia

and I encourage all citizens to join in this local celebration each in their own way.

                                                                                                            by:  Roy B. Guthrie

                                                                                                            date: November 14^th 2001