Dean's Message for July 3, 2025

Author:
July 02, 2025

I love the 4th of July. (And not just because it's not a big workload holiday!) The wonderful ever-changing big messy American experiment in democracy which has endured for 249 years is a source of fascination and wonder for me. Our collective action as a nation, our decisions as a church community, each of our interactions with one another and our interior lives—all of these are shaped and defined by our faith. You may not be aware that on our Episcopal church calendar, it is technically a feast day, but we will be celebrating on July 3 at 6 pm, with a new American experiment in democracy,
"Stars, Stripes, & Pipes"! I want to extend my appreciation to Miles Tolbert and Joey Ripka, who have thoughtfully selected readings and music appropriate for our commemoration, and I hope you will join us for this and then process down to Scissortail Park to enjoy the OKC Philharmonic and fireworks show. In case you haven't had enough celebration, join us on Sunday when our postlude will be Fanfare on "America" by Matthew H. Corl. "Lord God Almighty, in whose Name the founders of this country won liberty for themselves and for us, and lit the torch of freedom for nations then unborn: Grant that we and all the people of this land may have grace to maintain our liberties in righteousness and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen"(the Collect of the Day for July 4).

The Very Reverend Katie Churchwell, 15th Dean, St. Paul's Episcopal Cathedral

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