Independence Day Prayers for America

A Thanksgiving for America

Almighty God, giver of all good gifts; we thank you

• For this nation, our heritage, and for calling us to be the United States of America;
• For the founders of this country, the liberty they won for themselves and us, and for the torch of freedom they lit for nations then unborn;
• For the natural majesty and beauty of this land;
• For the great resources of this nation;
• For the diversity of people, races, cultures, languages, religions, and beliefs that fill this country;
• For the men and women who have made this country strong and for the men and women who in the day of decision ventured much for the liberties we now enjoy; and
• For the faith we have inherited in all its rich variety, for the freedom to express and live by that faith, and for the many ways in which you manifest yourself to and reveal yourself in the peoples of this nation.

Grant, O Lord, that we may receive these and all the many blessings you have bestowed upon us as sacred trusts and gifts, that we may hold them with an abiding and deep sense of gratitude, and that by your grace we may be strengthened to maintain our liberties in righteousness and peace for the good of all people. All this we pray through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

(Adaptation and supplementation of the Book of Common Prayer)

A Blessing for America

Holy God, we have gathered this day with joy to celebrate and give thanks for America and your abundant blessing of America. May we never know a day in which America is not blessed. Continue to give us your blessing. God, bless America.

• Bless us with discomfort at easy answers, half-truths, and superficial relationships so that we may seek truth boldly, love fearlessly, and live from deep within our hearts.
• Bless us with anger at injustice, oppression, prejudice, and exploitation of people so that we may work for justice, freedom, and peace among all people.
• Bless us with indifference to race, nationality, and religion so that we may break down the walls that separate us and be united as one people.
• Bless us with sorrow for our misdoings, our injuries to others, and the misuse of our freedom so that we may seek peace, make amends, and heal broken relationships.
• Bless us with tears to shed for all who suffer pain or loss, for the poor, the hungry, the homeless, for refugees, and for the victims of violence and war so that with generosity and compassion we may reach out our hands to care for and comfort them and turn their sorrow into joy.
• Bless us with enough foolishness to believe that we can make a difference in our country and the world so that we may do what others claim cannot be done.

(Adaptation and supplementation of “A Franciscan Blessing”)

Bless us and keep us; make your face to shine upon us, and be gracious to us; lift up your countenance upon us, and give us peace. (Numbers 6:24-26)

God, bless America. Amen.