RONALD REAGAN, ADDRESS TO THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF EVANGELICALS (“EVIL EMPIRE SPEECH”) (8 MARCH 1983) [1] President Reagan: Thank you…[Applause]…Thank you very much…Thank you very much…[Applause subsides]…Thank you very much…and, Reverend Clergy all, and Senator Hawkins, distinguished members of the Florida congressional delegation, and all of you: [2] I can’t tell you how you have warmed my heart with your welcome. I’m delighted to be here today. [3] Those of you in the National Association of Evangelicals are known for your spiritual and humanitarian work. And I would be especially remiss if I didn’t discharge right now one personal debt of gratitude. Thank you for your prayers. Nancy and I have felt their presence many times in many ways. And believe me, for us they’ve made all the difference. [4] The other day in the East Room of the White House at a meeting there, someone asked me whether I was aware of all the people out there who were praying for the President. And I,