Dear Friends in Christ,
Happy July 4th! As we gather to celebrate this Independence Day, let us give thanks for the gift of our nation—its freedoms, its founding ideals, and the countless individuals who have worked and sacrificed to protect and preserve them. America is a great country. While we are not without flaws, we are always striving to become a better nation—more just, more compassionate, and more united.
In a time when our country often feels divided, our faith calls us to be beacons of hope and unity. Let us resist the urge to view one another as opponents, and instead choose to build bridges of understanding, dialogue, and respect. We are all created in the image of God and entrusted with the sacred task of upholding one another.
Pope Leo XIV reminded us that faith and community can be powerful sources of healing—especially for those feeling anxious, lonely, or overwhelmed. He encouraged Americans to find strength in their parishes and to become living signs of hope. “You are the promise of hope for so many of us,” he said. “We need you. We must look beyond our egotistical ways to promote hope.”
Let us take pride in what we’ve achieved together—freedom of worship, progress toward justice, and the ongoing effort to form a more perfect union. And let us commit ourselves anew to healing what is broken through acts of service, truth, and love.
On this Fourth of July, may our celebrations be filled with gratitude and joy. And may we continue to be a blessing to this nation we call home.
