A letter from the Bishop of Pennsylvania, the Rt. Revd. Daniel P. Gutierrez, directed to the parishes of our diocese about the observation of Independence Day
My Siblings in Christ,
As we prepare to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our country's founding, I am reflecting on the fact that Philadelphia is the birthplace not only of the United States but also of the Episcopal Church.
Our ancestors in faith in this diocese were leaders during that time of turmoil and uncertainty. Now, that leadership falls to us as we endeavor to live as disciples of Christ in this present moment in the life of our country, one that is marked by political division, upheaval, and war.
So, during this time of both celebration and uncertainty, I am calling on our diocese to join our voices together as one in prayer for this nation on Sunday, July 5, 2026.
On July 5, I am directing that every parish in the diocese use the readings appointed by the Book of Common Prayer for Independence Day, and to pray the Collect “For the Nation.” (See below.) These readings and Collect will replace the Proper for the 6th Sunday after Pentecost (Proper 9).
This direction comes out of deep prayer and consideration. From Deuteronomy’s call to “love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt,” to Jesus’ subversive and counter-cultural command in the Sermon on the Mount to “love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,” the witness of Scripture speaks directly to our hearts, our communities, and to the very soul of our nation.
Please join me in solemn and humble prayer for our nation, for those who are marginalized and hurting, for God’s peace and love to reign in this world, and for God’s will to be done here and on all the earth as it is in heaven.
In Christ,
Bishop Daniel
Collect
Lord God Almighty, you have made all the peoples of the earth for your glory, to serve you in freedom and in peace: Give to the people of our country a zeal for justice and the strength of forbearance, that we may use our liberty in accordance with your gracious will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.
Readings
Deuteronomy 10:17-21
Hebrews 11:8-16
Matthew 5:43-48
Psalm 145 or 145:1-9