This year marks the 250th anniversary of the Dec- laration of Independence of the United States of America. On Friday, July 4, we celebrate this special occasion as a national holiday. It is an opportunity to give thanks for the gift of freedom, peace, and the values that have shaped the history of this nation. In our prayers, let us commend the United States – our second homeland – to God, asking for unity, wisdom for its leaders, and respect for the dignity of every human person.