Gov. Perry Proclaims a Day of Prayer in Texas

Throughout our history, Americans have relied on prayer and reflection. During times of strength and times of weakness, in moments of joy and moments of despair, America has prayed as a means of seeking comfort, giving thanks and asking for guidance and grace.

In 1775, the Continental Congress asked the colonies to join in prayer, seeking wisdom as they faced the responsibility and opportunity of building a new nation. Three decades later, during a time of national turmoil, President John Adams declared "a day of solemn humiliation, fasting and prayer" and asked citizens of all faiths to pray for America's protection from danger. Later, as civil war tore our young country apart, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a day of national fasting and prayer, saying "it behooves us ... to humble ourselves before the offended Power, to confess our national sins, and to pray to the God that made us."

Today, Americans continue in the tradition of our forefathers by acknowledging the power of prayer in our lives and cherishing our right to pray freely. These times of national supplication were made official in 1952 when President Harry Truman signed a joint resolution of the U.S. Congress establishing a floating annual national day of prayer. Finally, in 1988, President Ronald Reagan set the date of the annual prayer day as the first Thursday in May.

Thursday, May 3, 2012, is the 61st Annual National Day of Prayer. Let us join in praying for unity and righteousness - for this great state, this great nation and all mankind.

Therefore, I, Rick Perry, Governor of Texas, do hereby proclaim May 3, 2012, to be

A Day of Prayer

in Texas, and urge the appropriate recognition whereof.

In official recognition whereof, I hereby affix my signature this the 11th day of April, 2012.

RICK PERRY
Governor of Texas