George Washington's Thanksgiving Proclamation Made 18 References
to God; Obama's, 4 (CNSNews.com) – In the first Thanksgiving
Proclamation, President George Washington repeatedly
acknowledged “Almighty God” and called upon Americans to devote
the day in “service of that great and glorious Being,” the
“beneficent Author” of all good. In his Proclamation for
Thanksgiving 2012, President Barack Obama references “God”
marginally and then encourages Americans “to join together” in
places like “community centers” and “share our bounty with
others.” The two proclamations contrast markedly, with
Washington referencing God 18 times while Obama references God 4
times. Washington’s proclamation was issued on Oct. 3, 1789, and
it is replete with acknowledgment of God in all aspects of life.
For example, it partly reads as follows: “Whereas it is the duty
of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to
obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to
implore his protection and favor …. “…ackn