Prayers Offered Commemorating the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America

CHICAGO, IL [DOM] – On the occasion of the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America, His Eminence Archbishop Daniel of Chicago and the Diocese of the Midwest, served a Service of Thanksgiving, at the Diocesan Cathedral, Holy Trinity Cathedral, Chicago, IL.

Earlier this week, the Orthodox Church in America published “Service in Thanksgiving to Almighty God on the 250th Anniversary of the United States of America,” which was approved by the Holy Synod.

In a letter to clergy , the Archbishop blessed the Diocese of the Midwest to celebrate this service at the end of Vigil or Vespers on Saturday, July 4, or immediately following the Divine Liturgy on Sunday, July 5. “With grateful hearts, we remember the blessings of liberty, the sacrifices of those who have served our nation, and the enduring gift of religious freedom that allows us to worship God openly and faithfully.”

The Archbishop concluded the letter calling all to a renewal of prayer, “May this Service of Thanksgiving renew our commitment to pray for our country, its leaders, and all its people. May God bless the United States with wisdom, justice, peace, and unity, and may He guide us to be faithful disciples of…