By: Stephenson H.C.R. No. 39 HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION WHEREAS, The Ten Commandments set forth a code of moral conduct that has had a significant impact on the development of the legal principles of western civilization; and WHEREAS, It is clear from their writings that our founding fathers believed devotedly that there was a God, and throughout American history all three branches of government have acknowledged the strong role of religion in our nation's heritage and in the lives of its citizens; and WHEREAS, Government should not now or ever demonstrate any hostility to observances of faith by disabling the recognition of our religious heritage; and WHEREAS, The overwhelming majority of voters in the state 2010 Republican Party Primary Election voted in favor of the public acknowledgement of God, and the 2012 platform of the Republican Party of Texas affirms "that the public acknowledgement of God is undeniable in our history and is vital to our freedom, prosperity, and strength"; and WHEREAS, Reflecting our history as a religious people, prayers, including the use of the word "God," at public gatherings and displays of the Ten Commandments in public educational institutions and other government buildings are acknowledgements of the continuing and important role of our religious tradition; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the 85th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby support prayers, including the use of the word "God," at public gatherings, and displays of the Ten Commandments in public educational institutions and other government buildings.