Honoring Rest and Freedom: Synod Office to Close for Independence Day
The Office of the Bishop of the Grand Canyon Synod will be closed on Friday, July 4, 2025, in observance of Independence Day. We join our communities in marking this national holiday with rest, reflection, and gratitude.
While the holiday invites celebration, we also remember that as Lutherans, our freedom in Christ calls us to lives of service, justice, and care for our neighbors. We are not only citizens of a nation but members of the body of Christ, called to love one another, bear one another’s burdens, and work for peace in our communities and world.
Whether you gather with friends and family, serve your neighborhood, or take time for quiet sabbath rest, we offer this prayer for your reflection:
“God of all nations, on this day we give thanks for the freedoms we enjoy and remember those who have labored for justice throughout our history. May our celebrations not distract us from your call to care for the poor, welcome the stranger, and speak for those whose voices are silenced. Let our love of country never outweigh our love of your kingdom. Shape our hearts, O God, to seek peace and pursue it. In Jesus’ name we pray.”
We will resume regular office hours on Monday, July 7, 2025. May this weekend be a time of joy, gratitude, and renewed commitment to Christ’s mission in the world.