Metr. Gregory Calls Faithful to Mark America's 250th Anniversary With Prayer

JOHNSTOWN, PA — The American Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese of North America is calling on its clergy and faithful to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with special services, public celebrations, and acts of charity during the upcoming Fourth of July weekend.

In a June 19 archpastoral letter, Metr. Gregory of Nyssa urged parishes across the United States to mark the nation's semiquincentennial with prayerful thanksgiving. "We are commemorating our birth as a country," the Metropolitan wrote, noting that celebrations throughout the nation have included "opportunities for historical reflection, community events and simply joyful celebrations with our states, cities and towns."

The Metropolitan directed parishes to serve a special Moleben of Thanksgiving on July 5, or on July 4 where a Divine Liturgy is celebrated, and encouraged communities to organize processions, outdoor prayer services, and participation in local civic events. He added that participation in community celebrations "is not just good to do, but I would also say, necessary."

The specially prepared service of thanksgiving emphasizes gratitude for both spiritual and civic blessings. In one of its principal hymns, the faithful proclaim: "We, Your thankful and unworthy servants, praise and glorify You, O Lord, for the many blessings we have received from You." Another prayer petitions God to "Grant harmony to our communities. Strengthen our homes and families."

Metr. Gregory also encouraged the faithful to accompany their celebrations with charitable works, writing, "Let it be an occasion of prayerful thanksgiving and celebration, an occasion of true thanksgiving that overflows into compassion and charity for others."

Previously, the UOJ reported that Abp. Mark reflected on Orthodoxy's place in America at 250 years.