Celebrations of the Fourth of July will be more spirited this year as our nation marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Amid the picnics and fireworks, take some time to reflect on one of the greatest birthday gifts in history – aside from the gift of Jesus to humanity at Christmas – the enduring legacy of freedom. (See Bishop Michael Martin’s column here.) Here are a few ways to celebrate America and learn more about its history from a Catholic perspective.
The USCCB is encouraging Catholics to take part in “250 Hours of Adoration.” Parishes across the country offered Holy Hours leading up to the June 11 consecration of the country to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. However, the need to spend some time in prayer for our country with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament didn’t end with the consecration. Catholics can still pray for unity and healing by using the prayers and readings from the USCCB during their own adoration hours.