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Committee advances resolution designating July as month of prayer and fasting
Summary
The House Naming and Designating Committee voted to advance a resolution asking that July be observed annually as a month of intermittent fasting and prayer for those "spiritually inclined and physically able." The committee approved the measure and sent it to the State and Local Government Committee with a positive recommendation.
Vice Chairman Fritz introduced a House short resolution to set aside July each year as a month of intermittent fasting and prayer "as a means of seeking God's blessing and humbling ourselves," saying the measure is permissive and aimed at those "spiritually inclined and physically able." Vice Chairman Fritz cited historical presidential proclamations and the Tennessee Constitution in support of the resolution.
The measure was presented as voluntary; Vice Chairman Fritz said it "calls upon those who are spiritually inclined and physically able," and framed it as a response to social challenges such as criminal violence, human trafficking, addiction and suicide. Fritz referenced historical figures, telling the committee that John Adams had opened a proclamation in 1798 by saying "the safety and prosperity of nations ultimately and essentially depend on the protection and blessing of almighty God," and cited Tennessee Constitution, Article I, Section 3, on the right to worship.
There were no questions recorded for the sponsor. The clerk announced the committee vote as eight ayes; the chair declared the measure passes and moved on to the State and Local Government Committee with a positive recommendation.
The action is advisory and ceremonial: the resolution requests a recurring observance rather than creating a legal duty or regulatory change.
