My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
Grace and peace be with you as we celebrate the joyous occasion of Independence Day. As your Primate, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on this significant day and offer you a message of hope, gratitude, and prayer.
First and foremost, let us give thanks to Almighty God for the blessings He has bestowed upon our land. We are privileged to live in a nation that upholds the principles of freedom, liberty, and justice for all. The Fourth of July is a time to remember and appreciate the courageous men and women who fought for our independence and the countless individuals who have dedicated their lives to the service and betterment of our beloved country.
As we celebrate this national holiday, let us also remember that true freedom is not merely a political or legal construct but a gift that is deeply rooted in our faith. Our Christian faith teaches us about the ultimate freedom found in Christ, who liberated us from the bondage of sin and offers us the opportunity to live in the fullness of His grace. As St. Paul writes: “For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery” (Galatians 5:1).
In light of this, let us be mindful of our responsibility to use our freedom wisely and responsibly. Our freedom should never be an excuse for selfishness, injustice, or the neglect of our neighbors. Instead, it should inspire us to promote the common good, to pursue justice, and to actively participate in building a society that reflects God's love and mercy.
On this Fourth of July, I encourage you to reflect on the values that have shaped our nation and examine how we can live them out more fully in our own lives. Let us embrace the principles of unity, respect, and compassion as we engage with one another, even in the midst of our differences. May we be agents of reconciliation and peacemakers in a world often plagued by division and strife.
As we gather with our families, friends, and communities to celebrate Independence Day, let us also remember those who are less fortunate and those who are suffering. Offer a prayer for our brave men and women serving in the military, who safeguard our freedom at great personal cost.
Pray for unity and healing in our nation, for the marginalized and oppressed, and for an end to violence and injustice wherever they may be found.
May this Fourth of July be a time of deep reflection, gratitude, and prayer for each one of us. Let us recommit ourselves to the noble ideals upon which our nation was founded and to the unchanging truths of our Christian faith. Together, may we strive to build a more just, compassionate, and inclusive society where the dignity of every human person is upheld and cherished.
May God bless you, your families, and our great nation abundantly on this Independence Day and always.
With prayers and blessings,
Fr. Mesrop Parsamyan
Primate of the Diocese of
the Armenian Church of America (Eastern)
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