Chaplain kibben would you pray with me. Gracious god, such privilege you have shown us. What favor you have bestowed on this nation from its inception 245 years ago. This republic is nothing short of your gracious gift. In your mercy, you have called us into liberty. On this Independence Day we acknowledge the sacrifice of our countrys ancestors and the toil of our founders. Much blood has been spilled and tears shed to ensure the success of the experiment of american democracy. Remind us again even as we celebrate this weekend that noble ideals serve to build the strong foundation of these United States. Our freedoms are not occasion for us to promote selfish interests or exercise our privilege over another. Rather, in light of the independence we enjoy, we are called to recommit ourselves to what binds us together. May we once again seek corporately to love and serve you as we devote ourselves to love and serve this country and all who have pledged themselves to its principles. May w