Plus, Dan Burke said, "I have difficulty apologizing for something I had nothing to do with." The impact of the legislative action is the same, he said, "whether we say we're begging forgiveness or say we regret the dark days" the Mormons spent in Nauvoo.

Franks was expected to join a delegation of Illinois officials, including the Burkes and Illinois Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn, coming to Salt Lake City next week to present the resolution to LDS Church President Gordon B. Hinckley.

But Franks said Friday he won't be able to make the trip because it conflicts with his family's celebration of Passover, a Jewish commemoration. The Illinois delegation is scheduled to appear with Hinckley and Walker at a press conference on Wednesday.

Franks said he learned about the LDS faith as a result of the resolution.

"I lost a lot of family members in the Holocaust," he said. "We all have something in common. I think it's important to stand together and acknowledge that type of treatment. I think that's the first step in ensuring that it never happens again."

Both Franks and Burke said they have received e-mails from all over the country praising the state's recognition of Nauvoo. "I'm gratified by the response. I never anticipated this outpouring of support," Franks said. "It's been great."

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