FROM THE PARISH PRIEST
 

On Thanksgiving
by Fr. Romey Rosco

        In this time of protests against religion and its acknowledgement, it would be good to realize that it is un-American not to thank Almighty God for every material blessing, for the land we live in and for the gifts of health and freedom.

        Americans would be wise to heed the exhortation of the Old Testament book of 1st Chronicles, where it says: "Give thanks to the Lord, invoke His name, make known among the nations His deeds.  Sing to Him, sing His praise, proclaim all his wondrous works." (16:8-9)

        When this country was founded, its leadership readily called upon God for the strength and the moral character needed to build the nation and preserve it. (See the Thanksgiving Day Proclamation below.)  America's short history is a lesson in man's faith in God and the dignity He gives us.

        But now, as we see our faith and our morality being attacked and undermined by biased courts and those who choose freedom from religion rather than freedom of religion, we can honestly fear that America is leaving her course of greatness in exchange for a more worldly philosophy: man's "right" to live, not for God nor for himself, but for a Godless system that will take care of him.

        God help us!

Thanksgiving Day Proclamation
by George Washington, 1789

  WHEREAS it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly implore His protection, aid and favors….

  Now, THEREFORE, I do recommend and assign Thursday, the 26th day of November next, to be devoted by the people of these states to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the Beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be; that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country, and for all the great and various favors which He has been pleased to confer upon us.

From The Weekly Bulletin, Vol. XXX No. 46, 23 November 2003
Sts. Peter & Paul Romanian Orthodox Church, Dearborn Heights MI

BACK