NDR Media Coverage

House Resolution Calls for Prayer and Fasting; Humanists ask Bush to Declare "National Day of Reason"'NATIONAL DAY OF REASON?

WASHINGTON, D.C. (EP) – The House passed a resolution by a vote of 346 to 49 March 27 that urges President Bush to proclaim a national day of prayer and fasting concerning the war in Iraq and increasing threat of terrorism.

The bill pointed to "the public need for fasting and prayer in order to secure the blessings and protection of Providence for the people of the United States and our armed forces." The resolution also said that prayer and fasting would help initiate "unity and solidarity among all the diverse people of this nation as well as procuring the enduring grace and benevolence of God."

White House spokesperson Claire Buchan said that Bush has not yet considered the bill but "believes that faith and prayer are important and frequently references the importance of praying for American troops and for freedom around the world."

In response to the resolution, leaders of secular, humanist and atheist organizations have asked Bush to declare a "National Day of Reason" in conjunction with the "National Day of Prayer," which is May 1. In a letter to Bush sent on March 21, the groups said that such a proclamation would acknowledge that the "National Day of Prayer," observed annually since 1952, excludes nonbelievers.

"A national day of prayer excludes millions on a deeply emotional level, whereas recognizing reason as well as prayer is an inclusive, respectful gesture," said the statement. "While prayer is a source of comfort for many Americans, reason should guide government policy.">

A USA Today article quoted a few people close to Bush as saying that he relies heavily on prayer and direction from God. Commerce Secretary Don Evans told the news organization that the President "believes he was called by God to lead the nation at this time." Evans also said that Bush deals with the burdens of the war through prayer and exercise.

Copyright 2003 The Wichita Chronicle

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