Honoring Juneteenth

Juneteenth, celebrated annually on June 19, has only been a federal holiday since 2021; however, for people of African descent in the United States, this holiday has been a celebration of African-American freedom for more than 150 years. Also known as Black Independence Day, Juneteenth marks June 19, 1865 when Black people who were enslaved in Galveston, Texas, finally received the message that slavery had been ended, more than two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation.

St. Andrew’s is committed to being an inclusive community. Affirming God’s grace, open and growing in heart, mind, and spirit, called to love and serve all in Jesus’ Name. Treating others the way we would want to be treated.

Here are some prayers, not just for Juneteenth, but for everyday:

• Almighty God, you rescued your people from slavery in Egypt, and throughout the ages you have never failed to hear the cries of the captives; We remember before you our sisters and brothers in Galveston, Texas who on this day received the glad tidings of their emancipation; Forgive us for the many grave sins that delayed that liberating word; Anoint us with your Spirit to bring good news to the poor, to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim the year of your favor; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

• Holy and righteous God, you created us in your image. Grant us grace to contend fearlessly against evil and to make no peace with oppression. Help us, like those of generations before us, resist the evil of slavery and human bondage in any form and any manner of oppression. Help us to use our freedoms to bring justice among people and nations everywhere, to the glory of your Holy name through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

from the Diocese of Central NY website