December 11, 2007.
Whereas Christmas, a holiday of great significance to Americans and many other
cultures and nationalities, is celebrated annually by Christians throughout
the United States and the world;
Whereas there are approximately 225,000,000 Christians in the United States,
making Christianity the religion of over three-fourths of the American population;
Whereas there are approximately 2,000,000,000 Christians throughout the world,
making Christianity the largest religion in the world and the religion of
about one-third of the world population;
Whereas Christians and Christianity have contributed greatly to the development
of western civilization;
Whereas the United States, being founded as a constitutional republic in the
traditions of western civilization, finds much in its history that points
observers back to its Judeo-Christian roots;
Whereas on December 25 of each calendar year, American Christians observe
Christmas, the holiday celebrating the birth of their savior, Jesus Christ;
Whereas for Christians, Christmas is celebrated as a recognition of God's
redemption, mercy, and Grace; and
Whereas many Christians and non-Christians throughout the United States and
the rest of the world, celebrate Christmas as a time to serve others: Now,
therefore, be it
Resolved, That the House of Representatives--
(1) recognizes the Christian faith as one of the great religions of the world;
(2) expresses continued support for Christians in the United States and worldwide;
(3) acknowledges the international religious and historical importance of
Christmas and the Christian faith;
(4) acknowledges and supports the role played by Christians and Christianity
in the founding of the United States and in the formation of the western civilization;
(5) rejects bigotry and persecution directed against Christians, both in
the United States and worldwide; and
(6) expresses its deepest respect to American Christians and Christians throughout the world.