HR0474 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0474 LRB104 15458 ECR 28614 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The Bible has long been a foundational text in shaping the moral, cultural, and spiritual heritage of the State of Illinois and the United States; and

WHEREAS, On September 12, 1782, a historic milestone occurred in American history when the Continental Congress, during the American Revolutionary War, officially approved the publication of the first complete English-language Bible to be printed in America, known as the "Aitken Bible" or the "Bible of the Revolution"; and

WHEREAS, This monumental event, which took place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was under the direction of a congressional committee led by James Duane and with the endorsement of the congressional chaplains, marking not only a turning point in American history but also underscoring the role of spiritual heritage in the birth of our nation; and

WHEREAS, The Aitken Bible served not only as a religious text but also as a powerful symbol of national resilience, unity, and self-governance during one of the most trying times in our country's history; and

WHEREAS, For centuries, the Bible has offered inspiration, comfort, and moral guidance to countless Americans, influencing individual lives and shaping our collective values of justice, compassion, redemption, personal responsibility, and the dignity of all human life; and

WHEREAS, Many of our greatest leaders, including Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and countless others, have drawn wisdom and strength from the pages of Scripture; and

WHEREAS, The principles found in the Bible are reflected in many aspects of life as an American and an Illinoisan, including in our laws, our charitable institutions, the values taught in our homes and schools, and the work of faith-based organizations throughout the State; and

WHEREAS, Recognizing September 12 annually as "The Day of the Bible" provides an opportunity for the people of Illinois to reflect on the enduring influence of the Bible on our shared cultural and historical identity and to reaffirm the principles of liberty, equality, and justice that form the bedrock of our State and nation; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we declare September 12, 2025 as The Day of the Bible in the State of Illinois; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we encourage schools, civic institutions, churches, and community organizations throughout the State to observe this day with appropriate educational, historical, and cultural programs and activities that highlight the Bible's significance in the past, present, and future of our State and nation.