Prayer for the 250th Anniversary of the United States
As the United States commemorates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, Catholics across the country are invited to unite in prayer for healing, unity and renewal through the national We Hold These Truths initiative.In conjunction with this historic anniversary and the consecration of our nation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the Diocese of Erie Office for Divine Worship has prepared a special Prayer for the 250th Anniversary of the United States. This prayer invites the faithful to reflect on the blessings of religious freedom, pray for our nation and recommit ourselves to living as missionary disciples of Jesus Christ.
Parishes, schools, ministries, families and individuals are encouraged to pray this prayer throughout the anniversary year and especially leading up to July 4.
Download the Prayer Card
The diocesan prayer card is available for parish distribution, personal prayer and digital sharing.
Resources Include:
• Printable prayer card: (2-page PDF)
• Digital prayer card: Front (JPG) | Back (JPG)
Participate in 250 Hours of Adoration
The Diocese of Erie also encourages the faithful to participate in 250 Hours of Adoration between June 11 and July 4 as part of the national We Hold These Truths campaign.
Whether through a parish holy hour, Eucharistic adoration chapel visit or time spent in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament, Catholics are invited to pray for healing, peace, unity and the future of our nation.
Parishes and individuals are encouraged to report their participation so the Diocese of Erie may join dioceses across the country in this national effort of prayer and renewal.
Click here to learn more.
Social Media Campaign
The Diocese of Erie has also prepared a social media campaign that parishes, schools and individuals may use throughout the anniversary celebrations.
These graphics and prayer reflections are designed to help Catholics publicly witness to their faith and share messages of hope, prayer and unity during this historic moment in the history of the United States. Simply right click and save the images below. Content is also provided for your use:
JUNE 13
As we participate in the “We Hold These Truths” campaign, let us pray together for our nation during this special anniversary year.
“O God, Lord of history and of every nation under heaven, we give You thanks for the 250 years since the founding of these United States. Look with favor upon this land which we love. Grant that its people may be guided by truth and charity.”
May we continue praying for healing, unity and peace throughout our country.
Learn more and participate at www.ErieRCD.org/250.html.
#WeHoldTheseTruths #SacredHeart #DioceseOfErie
JUNE 20
As Catholics across the country participate in “We Hold These Truths,” we continue to pray for our nation and all who serve it.
“Bless all who serve in elected office. May they govern with integrity and humility. Strengthen families, renew communities, and heal every division that weakens our life together.”
May Christ guide our nation with wisdom, charity and peace.
Learn more and participate at www.ErieRCD.org/250.html.
#WeHoldTheseTruths #SacredHeart #DioceseOfErie
JUNE 27
During this anniversary year, let us continue to entrust our country to the Sacred Heart of Jesus through prayer and works of mercy.
“We ask especially through the intercession of Mary Immaculate, patroness of these United States, that this nation may remain a land where human dignity is honored, where the weak are protected, and where hope is never extinguished.”
May we continue living as faithful disciples of Christ in our homes, parishes and communities.
Learn more and participate at www.ErieRCD.org/250.html.
#WeHoldTheseTruths #SacredHeart #DioceseOfErie
JULY 4
Today, as our nation marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, let us give thanks for the gift of religious freedom and recommit ourselves to living as disciples of Christ.
“As we mark this 250th year, grant that we may recommit ourselves to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness in a way that is ever more just, more united, and more faithful to Your will. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.”
May God bless our nation, guide our hearts and strengthen us to serve one another with truth, charity and love.
Learn more and participate at www.ErieRCD.org/250.html.
#WeHoldTheseTruths #SacredHeart #ReligiousFreedom #DioceseOfErie