A Fourth of July Pastoral Message from the Bishop

Celebrating 250 Years of American Independence

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Grace and peace to you in the Name of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

As we gather to celebrate Independence Day, we do so during a truly historic year, marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. This remarkable milestone invites us to pause with gratitude, humility, and hope as we reflect upon the blessings of liberty, the sacrifices of those who came before us, and the responsibilities entrusted to every generation.

For two and a half centuries, countless Americans have labored to build, defend, and strengthen this nation. We remember with gratitude the courage of our founders, the sacrifice of those who have worn the uniform of our armed forces, the dedication of first responders, healthcare professionals, chaplains, public servants, educators, and all who have worked quietly and faithfully for the common good.

As Christians, however, we recognize that freedom is far more than political independence. Holy Scripture reminds us:

"For you were called to freedom, brothers and sisters. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for self-indulgence, but through love become servants of one another." — Galatians 5:13

True liberty is found not merely in our rights, but in our willingness to love God and serve our neighbor. The freedoms we celebrate today are sustained not only by laws and constitutions, but by virtue, justice, mercy, and a people committed to the common good.

This anniversary also calls us to humility. Like every nation throughout history, ours has known moments of extraordinary courage and moments that call for repentance and renewal. Yet we trust that God continues to guide those who seek His wisdom and walk in His ways. As followers of Christ, we are called to be peacemakers, to pursue justice, to defend the dignity of every human person, and to pray faithfully for all who exercise authority.

As Anglicans, we have long prayed for our nation and its leaders. I invite every member of the Anglican Province of North America to join me in praying:

For the President of the United States, members of Congress, governors, judges, and all entrusted with public office.

For the men and women of our Armed Forces, veterans, law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical personnel, healthcare workers, and chaplains.

For our churches, our families, our communities, and our neighbors.

For peace, justice, reconciliation, and unity throughout our nation.

That Almighty God would continue to bless America and guide us in the paths of righteousness.

As we commemorate 250 years of American independence, I am reminded of the beloved hymn I Vow to Thee, My Country. It captures a truth that has long resonated with Christians: we may rightly love and faithfully serve our earthly nation with gratitude and sacrifice, yet our highest allegiance belongs to another Kingdom—one whose King is Christ Himself.

That is the balance to which we are called.

We honor our nation without making it our idol.

We cherish our freedoms while remembering that they are gifts entrusted to us for the service of others.

We love our country most faithfully when we seek justice, show mercy, walk humbly with God, and strive to leave our communities better than we found them.

As we celebrate this historic anniversary, may we recommit ourselves not only to being faithful Americans but, above all, faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. May our lives reflect the hope of the Gospel, our service reflect the love of Christ, and our witness remind the world that no earthly kingdom, however great, can compare to the everlasting Kingdom of God.

May Almighty God bless the United States of America as we celebrate this 250th year of our national story.

May He grant wisdom to those who govern, courage to those who serve, comfort to those who mourn, healing to those who suffer, and hope to every generation yet to come.

And may He ever remind us that while we give thanks for the nation entrusted to our care, we journey toward that eternal Kingdom where righteousness, peace, and love shall reign forever.

May God bless you, your families, and our beloved nation.

Happy Independence Day.

Faithfully in Christ,

The Rt. Rev. Brent E. Whetstone Bishop Anglican Ordinariate of Saint George