Statement of Governor Perdue Regarding the Passing of Pope John Paul II

ATLANTA, GA - Governor Sonny Perdue issued the following statement today regarding the passing of Pope John Paul II:

            “Mary and I wish to express our sadness at the passing of Pope John Paul II and our condolences to Archbishop Gregory and Georgia’s entire Catholic community of faith.  Pope John Paul II was a beloved leader who held a special connectivity with people of all religious beliefs during his entire 26 year papacy.  He taught peace and fostered a culture of life, and he will surely be missed by all mankind.”

            Governor Perdue has issued an Executive Order directing that flags on all state buildings and grounds be flown at half-staff until sunset on the day of his funeral.  Text of the Executive Order is provided below:

Executive Order

FLAGS ON STATE BUILDINGS ORDERED LOWERED TO HALF STAFF

The people of the State of Georgia are deeply saddened by the passing of Pope John Paul II; and

The citizens of the State of Georgia share the grief of the millions of Catholics and people of faith around the world for whom the Pope served as a spiritual leader and source of inspiration.

NOW THEREFORE, IN HONOR AND AS A MARK OF RESPECT FOR THE MEMORY OF POPE JOHN PAUL II, PURSUANT TO THE AUTHORITY VESTED IN ME AS GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF GEORGIA, IT IS HEREBY

ORDERED:      That the flag of the United States and the flag of this State be flown at half-staff on all State buildings and grounds from this date until sunset on the day of his funeral.

THIS 2^nd DAY OF APRIL, 2005.

(Signed: Sonny Perdue)____

GOVERNOR