FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 10, 2004 
CONTACT: Jacob Dipietre (850) 488-5394

Governor Bush Announces Weekend of Prayer

TALLAHASSEE - Governor Jeb Bush today asked for people of all faiths to take a moment during their religious services this weekend to join him in prayer for those who have been impacted by Hurricanes Charley, Frances and potentially Ivan.

"The people of Florida have weathered brutal blows, and are braced for yet another challenge as Hurricane Ivan approaches our shores," said Governor Bush. "At this time of unprecedented challenge, I've drawn comfort and strength from my own personal faith, and have been lifted by the prayers of others."

Attached please find a letter from Governor Bush to faith-based leaders regarding the weekend of prayer.

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During times of challenge, men and women of all religions draw strength from their faith, and others discover the solace and power of prayer and other expressions of the religion they may have forgotten. The people of Florida have weathered brutal blows, and are braced for yet another challenge as Hurricane Ivan approaches our shores. As governor, I've drawn comfort and strength from my own personal faith, and have been lifted by the prayers of others during the unprecedented events of the last few weeks.

Our work to relieve the suffering of the thousands of Floridians devastated by the hurricanes continues, and our preparation for Ivan is ongoing. This weekend, I'm asking people of all faiths to take a moment during their religious services to offer a special prayer. I ask them to pray for the souls we've lost to nature's power, for the recovery of this great state and, if Florida cannot be spared from Ivan, I ask them to pray for the strength to face what lies ahead with the resolve and generous spirit required to serve each other and rebuild together.

Please extend this invitation to the members of your group or congregation. Ask them to join us, and lift our state in prayer this weekend.

May God bless and keep you close.

Sincerely,

Jeb Bush Governor