Republican Lawmaker Sends Bible to Every Member of Congress

A Republican congressman has reportedly sent a Bible to every member of Congress, calling on lawmakers to reflect on the Holy Book's words when making "policy decisions that impact America's future."

Rep. Steven Palazzo (R-Miss.), who is the Assistant House Majority Whip, sent a copy of the Bible to all 535 members of Congress before lawmakers began their five-week summer recess last Friday. Each Holy Book was accompanied by a note from Palazzo, in which the GOP lawmaker encourages his fellow congressman to reference God's word when making important decisions.

"On a daily basis, we contemplate policy decisions that impact America's future. Our staffs provide us with policy memos, statistics and recommendations that help us make informed decisions," the letter read. "However, I find that the best advice comes through meditating on God's word. Please find a copy of the Holy Bible to help guide you in your decision-making."

Atheist groups have denounced Palazzo's recent action, with Barry W. Lynn, executive director of Americans United for Separation of Church and State, telling Talking Points Memo that lawmakers should look to the U.S. Constitution, instead of the Bible, for inspiration and guidance.

"When a politician calls for using the Bible as the basis for public policy, what he or she is really saying is, 'Let's use the Bible as I interpret it as the basis for public policy,'" Lynn told the media outlet earlier this week. "When it comes to religion, our nation is pluralistic and diverse. Rather than look to the Bible or any other religious book to craft our nation's public policy, we would do well to examine another source instead, one that was actually created to guide governance. It's called the Constitution."