Revolutionary Leaders

Express Yourself

Almost 400 years ago, after surviving their first winter at Plymouth, the Pilgrims celebrated a harvest feast to give thanks. Years later George Washington proclaimed the first National Day of Thanksgiving in 1789, and Abraham Lincoln revived the tradition during the Civil War. Since that time, our citizens have paused to express thanks for the bounty of blessings we enjoy and to spend time with family and friends. In want or in plenty, in times of challenge or times of calm, we always have reasons to be thankful.

Below are excerpts from presidential prayers on Thanksgiving. As you read them, be encouraged, be thankful, and be challenged to express your gratitude.

Thank the Lord for the creation of a new country.
- George Washington, 1789

Thank the Lord for His protection
- James Madison, 1814

Render thanks to our Heavenly Father for these inestimable blessings.
- Abraham Lincoln, 1862

We owe humble and heartfelt thanks to the Author of all blessings.
- Theodore Roosevelt, 1904

Render thanks to Almighty God for the blessings of peace.
- Woodrow Wilson, 1916

We should accept these blessings with resolution to devote them to service of Almighty God.
- Herbert Hoover, 1929

Set apart a day of Thanksgiving to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt, 1938

May we add to our prayers of Thanksgiving a plea for Divine guidance.
- Harry S. Truman, 1949

Let us pray this year not only in the spirit of Thanksgiving but also as supplicants for God’s guidance.
- Dwight D. Eisenhower, 1956

We should ask what we can do as individuals to demonstrate our gratitude to God for all He has done.
- Ronald Reagan, 1981

Each year on Thanksgiving, we gather with family and friends to thank God for the many blessings He has given us, and we ask God to continue to guide and watch over our country.
- George W. Bush, 2003

How will you express your thanks to God, your parents, your friends, and others who have blessed and influenced your life? Express yourself!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!