The entire world has been challenged with the pandemic which certainly leads us to think about the many gifts graced upon us by the Almighty and milestones initiated by mankind. This year's celebration of Independence Day must be marked with a renewed vision and commitment to express our gratitude for all those who have believed in the Independence of the United States of America.

Independence in its general context and specifically targeted to a certain historical era should be revered. Independence does not give humanity the right to trodden virtues and sanctities. The interpretation of independence must be conveyed with the basis of faith in God as well as the historical context.

Independence should not be observed as a detached reality in a certain historical era but rather a journey carried on with the vision of the founders of the United States of America, home of hundreds of millions of Americans. Independence should be cherished with our involvement in making this country a more perfect union through our creative lives.

Almighty God, save and protect our country. Bless the memory of those who have believed and valued the gift of this God-given land.

We wish you a wonderful and safe 4th of July celebration.

Prayerfully,

Archbishop Hovnan Derderian
Primate
 

O Say, can you see
By the dawn's early light
What so proudly we hailed
At the twilight's last gleaming?

Whose broad stripes and bright stars
Through the perilous fight
O'er the ramparts we watched,
Were so gallantly, yeah, streaming?

And the rockets' red glare
The bombs bursting in air
Gave proof through the night
That our flag was still there

O say, does that star-spangled banner yet wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave