Pennsylvania SR 227: A Resolution urging the Governor to develop a comprehensive legislative plan to improve basic education in the public schools of this Commonwealth and to establish an advisory commission to study and make specific recommendations for components of the plan.

Bill Text

PRINTER'S NO. 1438
THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF PENNSYLVANIA
SENATE RESOLUTION
No. 227
Session of
2026
INTRODUCED BY MASTRIANO, MARTIN, VOGEL AND CULVER,
FEBRUARY 13, 2026
REFERRED TO RULES AND EXECUTIVE NOMINATIONS, FEBRUARY 13, 2026
A RESOLUTION
Designating May 7, 2026, as "The Day of Prayer and Fasting" in
Pennsylvania.
WHEREAS, The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania was founded by
William Penn upon principles of religious liberty, freedom of
conscience, peace and moral responsibility, which were central
to Penn's vision for a just and inclusive society; and
WHEREAS, William Penn emphasized the importance of conscience
and moral reflection in public life, stating that, "Right is
right, even if everyone is against it; and wrong is wrong, even
if everyone is for it," underscoring his belief that personal
integrity is essential to good governance; and
WHEREAS, William Penn further taught the value of peace and
humility, observing that, "True peace springs from an inward
quietness of mind," reflecting his belief that a just society is
strengthened by reflection, restraint and humility; and
WHEREAS, William Penn believed that personal reflection,
humility and faith, freely exercised without coercion, were
essential to the moral character of a free people and to the
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proper functioning of a just government; and
WHEREAS, Pennsylvania's constitutional and legal traditions
have long reflected these founding principles by protecting
religious liberty and encouraging the exercise of conscience in
public and private life; and
WHEREAS, During the American founding era and throughout the
Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress proclaimed multiple
days of prayer and fasting, calling upon the people to unite in
reflection, humility and perseverance during times of
uncertainty; and
WHEREAS, Pennsylvanians today face complex social, economic
and cultural challenges that call for wisdom, reflection,
gratitude and renewed commitment to community, compassion and
personal responsibility; and
WHEREAS, An annual "Day of Prayer and Fasting" provides an
inclusive opportunity for individuals of all faiths and those
who value quiet reflection, to pause for prayer, fasting,
contemplation and personal renewal; and
WHEREAS, The observance of a day of prayer has a longstanding
national foundation, as the national "Day of Prayer" has been
observed on the first Thursday of May since its enactment by
joint resolution of the Congress of the United States in 1952
and its signing into law by President Harry S. Truman; and
WHEREAS, Numerous states, including Tennessee, New York,
Texas and North Carolina, recognize the first Thursday of May as
a day of prayer through legislative action or gubernatorial
proclamation, reflecting a shared acknowledgment of the value of
reflection and unity in public life; therefore be it
RESOLVED, That the Senate designate May 7, 2026, as "The Day
of Prayer and Fasting" in Pennsylvania; and be it further
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RESOLVED, That this day be observed as a time for prayer,
fasting, reflection and personal renewal, in recognition of the
spiritual heritage and founding principles that have shaped the
Commonwealth and the nation and in encouragement of unity,
humility and goodwill among all Pennsylvanians; and be it
further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to
the Governor of Pennsylvania.
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