The church offices will be CLOSED on Monday, July 4th in observance of Independence Day. The parish staff wishes all our parishioners a safe Fourth of July and our sincere thanks and prayers to all who serve to maintain our country’s independence.
A Thanksgiving for America
Almighty God, giver of all good gifts; we thank you…
For this nation, our heritage, and for calling us to be the United States of America;
For the founders of this country, the liberty they won for themselves and us, and for the torch of freedom they lit for nations then unborn;
For the natural majesty and beauty of this land;
For the great resources of this nation;
For the diversity of people, races, cultures, languages, religions, and beliefs that fill this country;
For the men and women who have made this country strong and for the men and women who in the day of decision ventured much for the liberties we now enjoy;
For the faith we have inherited in all its rich variety, for the freedom to express and live by that faith, and for the many ways in which you manifest yourself to and reveal yourself in the peoples of this nation.” SOURCE: interruptingthesilence.com
Why is Independence Day celebrated on July 4th?
“On July 8, 1776, the first public readings of the Declaration were held in Philadelphia’s Independence Square to the ringing of bells and band music. One year later, on July 4, 1777, Philadelphia marked Independence Day by adjourning Congress and celebrating with bonfires, bells and fireworks.” SOURCE: www.pbs.org