America turns 250 this year. In a time of rising division, this anniversary offers something rare: a chance to pause, come together, and recommit — across faiths and across differences — to the shared values that sustain our democracy.

The public civic ritual is one of three components of the faith250 program, and it is open to any community that wants to participate — whether you've been part of a cluster for months or are just looking for a meaningful way to mark July 4th.

These rituals are powerful at any time of year, but July 4th offers a particularly resonant opportunity to gather neighbors from different faiths, read America's founding words aloud together, and celebrate what this country is still capable of becoming.

There is no single template. Each community designs its own ritual — shaped by local relationships, local needs, and the texts and traditions that speak to you. Resources to help you plan are on the way. In the meantime, explore what faith250 clusters are already doing, and reach out with questions at cathy@faith250.org.

Everything is free.