Boozman Participates In National Day Of Prayer

Press Release

Boozman Participates In National Day Of Prayer

Millions of Americans recognized the National Day of Prayer and participated in events all across the country as the debate over the constitutionality of this tradition is under scrutiny in the U.S. court system.

U.S. Representative John Boozman (R-AR), reaffirmed his interpretation of the law in a video message sent to constituents after he joined with hundreds of lawmakers, leaders of faith organizations and citizens from across the country to pray for our nation in the 59th annual National Day of Prayer Service.

"I will continue to fight to uphold the right of religious expression because now more than ever our country needs our prayers," Boozman said in the video.

The following is verbatim of the message from Boozman which can be found on YouTube.

"Prayer and religion are deeply rooted in the foundation of our nation. Our founding fathers made this clear in historical documents that have influenced our democracy and laws for hundreds of years. Today we recognize our religious heritage as we celebrate the National Day of Prayer which I am confident will continue for hundreds of more years.

A call to prayer began when the Continental Congress asked the colonies to pray for wisdom in the formation of our nation and we follow this tradition every day when the House of Representatives meet, we begin with a prayer.

I'm proud to support the National Day of Prayer that was signed into law in 1952 and amended in 1988 to permanently set the day of observance as the first Thursday in May. Each year since then, the president signs a proclamation, encouraging all Americans to pray on this day. This year has been no different.

You've probably heard or read about the recent decision by a federal judge who ruled that the law recognizing a National Day of Prayer is unconstitutional. I disagree. Our nation must always protect the rights of American citizens to worship publicly and freely. The National Day of Prayer is an example of the protection of religious expression that is granted by the Constitution.

In response to this ruling I joined my colleagues and leaders of faith-based organizations in a press conference to urge the Department Justice to appeal the decision. I'm grateful that one day later, the Department of Justice and the White House announced they would appeal the judge's decision.

I believe it's our responsibility to uphold the Christian values we were taught growing up. As a member of the Congressional Prayer Caucus I work to preserve our nation's religious history. Earlier this week I signed onto legislation that reaffirms "In God We Trust' as our national motto and encourages us all to put our trust in God.

I will continue to fight to uphold the right of religious expression because now more than ever our country needs our prayers. Thank you and may God bless you and may God bless America."

Earlier this week, Boozman joined his colleagues in urging Secretary Gates to consider re-inviting Rev. Franklin Graham, the 2010 Honorary Chairman, to events at the Pentagon. The military recently disinvited Graham because of comments he made about Islam. Read the letter here.

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