Navigating America 250 Faithfully

As we approach Independence Day and the national "America 250" commemorations, many pastors and church leaders are wrestling with important questions:

How do we give thanks for our nation without confusing love of country with devotion to God?

How do we celebrate the gifts of our democracy while also telling the truth about our history?

How do we lead worship that is faithful to Jesus Christ in a cultural moment when Christian symbols, language, and patriotism are often intertwined?

These are not easy questions, and none of us needs to navigate them alone.

Across Louisiana, several regional gatherings by the Louisiana Interchurch Conference will be creating space for clergy and lay leaders to reflect together, share ideas, and explore faithful approaches to worship, preaching, and public witness during this season.

Whether you are planning a July 5 worship service, considering how your congregation will engage the America 250 celebrations, or simply seeking conversation partners to review available resources on this topic, we invite you to join us.

Upcoming in person gatherings

• New Orleans - Thursday June 11, 2026 at 6pm at St. Anna's Episcopal Church (1313 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116). To find out about future New Orleans gatherings click HERE.

• Baton Rouge - Tuesday June 30, 2026 at 6:30pm at St. Margaret's Episcopal Church (12663 Perkins Rd, Baton Rouge, LA 70810) - To find out future Baton Rouge gatherings click HERE. 

State-wide Virtual Gathering

• June 24, 2026 at 2pm on Zoom - registration is not required but is helpful for planning. Please register here.

  
  

  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88443385309?pwd=L3xS4DkuIYPl4acajbvdMLCFbuIXE4.1

  
  

  Meeting ID: 884 4338 5309

  Passcode: 605469

All of these gatherings are open to anyone interested in exploring how Christian faith can remain centered on Christ rather than nationalism, and how churches can bear witness to God's kingdom while participating thoughtfully in civic life.

Please feel free to share this invitation with colleagues, clergy, and lay leaders who may be interested.