Washington D.C., Jul 28, 2006 / 12:00 am (CNA).- President George Bush has called upon Americans to observe the 50th anniversary of the national motto “In God We Trust”, July 30, with appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities.

In a proclamation issued from the White House, the president said the anniversary provides an opportunity to “reflect on these words that guide millions of Americans, recognize the blessings of the Creator, and offer our thanks for His great gift of liberty.”

The president recalled how Francis Scott Key first penned the motto in a poem during the War of 1812. His poem became the national anthem.

The motto first appeared on the 1864 two-cent coin. An act of Congress one year later allowed the mint director to place the motto on all gold and silver coins. However, it was only signed into law as the national motto on July 30, 1956 by President Dwight Eisenhower.

“Today, our country stands strong as a beacon of religious freedom,” reads the president’s proclamation. “Our citizens, whatever their faith or background, worship freely and millions answer the universal call to love their neighbor and serve a cause greater than self.”

Concerned Women for America (CWA) said it would join the president in marking the anniversary. “We take this opportunity to reflect upon the many blessings God has given our nation recognizing that our motto reflects our history of reliance on God to free us from tyranny,” said CWA director of government relations Lanier Swann.

“Our motto reasserts the grace that God has given to preserve this country. Without His help, our republic would be lost,” she continued. “Our celebration reminds us of the fight we must still engage to counter the ridiculous attempts to purge God from our public square.”

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