Pledge of Allegiance of the United States

"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."


In 1954, in response to the Communist threat of the times, President Eisenhower encouraged Congress to add the words "under God," creating the 31-word pledge we say today. Today it reads:

"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

Section 4 of the Flag Code states:

The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag: "I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.", should be rendered by standing at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. When not in uniform men should remove any non-religious headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should remain silent, face the flag, and render the military salute."






Monday, July 2, 2012

DAY 40 - DAILY PRAYER (FREEDOM) - JULY 3, 2012

July 3



A Fourth of July Prayer




We lift up our hearts, O God, on this day of celebration in gratitude for the gift of being Americans.


We rejoice with all those who share in the great dream of freedom and dignity for all.


With flags and feasting, with family and friends, we salute those who have sacrificed that we might have the opportunity to bring to fulfillment our many God-given gifts.


As we deny all prejudice a place in our hearts,
may we also clearly declare our intention to work for the time when all people, regardless of race, religion or sex, will be granted equal dignity and worth.


Come, O gracious God,
who led your children Israel from slavery, keep us free from all that might hold us in bondage.


Bless our country and join our simple celebration that we may praise you, our Source of freedom, the One in whom we place our trust. 



Ed Hays
A Pligrim's Almanac:
Reflections for Each Day of the Year, p. 111