Todd Tiahrt: “Today marks the 320th day that Martin and Gracia Burnham have been held captive by Muslim terrorists in the Philippines.…”

“Today marks the 320th day that Martin and Gracia Burnham have been held captive by Muslim terrorists in the Philippines. I had hoped to return to this podium after the recess and tell you the great news of Martin and Gracia's release. It has been customary in the Philippines for hostages to be released over the Easter holidays, so I was hopeful that the Burnhams would be released. Sadly, their children, Jeff and Mindy and Zack, celebrated another holiday without their beloved parents and without any communications from their parents. Martin and Gracia are still being held by savages with no regard for human life. Devout Christians who strongly believe that every life is precious, the Burnhams have learned early on that terrorists place no worth on human life as they watched their fellow captives become beheaded. On September 11, Americans were confronted with this reality. Daily in Israel and in Palestine people are disgusted by the evidence of these realities. President Bush is absolutely right when he declares terrorists as evil. This evil force is on the offensive around the world. But evil is not stronger than good. Hate is not stronger than love. Americans love human life, and so it is our duty to eradicate terrorism and promote the respect for life. I ask as always for you to join in prayer with me for Martin and Gracia Burnham and their loved ones so this nightmare may soon be over.”