Celebrating The Blessing of Independence

July 4, 2010

Dear Parishioner and Friend of The Sunday Mass,

Happy Independence Day! And God’s continued blessings on this great country of ours. It is important that we take time to give thanks for the gift of our Independence and for the many ways that God has walked with us in good times and in bad.

Ever since 9/11 our appreciation of the gift of our freedom has increased. The recent attempted bombing in Times Square in New York City once again reminds us that there are some in our world who want to diminish and mar what we have worked so hard to protect and encourage. The dangers of radical religious fundamentalism are evident. At THE SUNDAY MASS we are grateful to be able to preach a Gospel of love, acceptance and tolerance in the face of those who instead use religion for hatred and violence.

On this Independence Day we are also reminded of those who have sacrificed for our freedom and of those who have given their lives protecting our freedom. We remember them in prayer and give thanks for the great gift they have been to us.