Juneteenth Reflections: A Prayer for Liberation and Unity
As we approach Juneteenth—a day of remembrance, liberation, and renewed commitment to justice—we extend our heartfelt thanks to Janet Tiebert, who has thoughtfully led us in this meaningful time of contemplation.
Through historical reflection, sacred scripture, and prayerful intention, Janet invites us to honor the deep significance of Juneteenth, to acknowledge the enduring legacy of emancipation, and to recommit ourselves to the work of equity and love in action.
May this reflection ground us in gratitude, challenge us toward justice, and inspire in us a clean heart and a right spirit.
Know the History of Juneteenth
President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation of January 1, 1863, but it was not until June 19th of 1865 that the news of emancipation was shared and enacted in Galveston, Texas. On this date, the people of Texas learned that the Civil War had ended and slaves had gained their freedom. Major General Gordon Granger, the leader of the Union troops, issued General Order Number 3, emancipating the last 250,000 slaves who remained captive despite President Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation of 1863. The celebrations that followed the General's proclamation began a tradition among African American families that spread across the country and has lasted for over one hundred and fifty-five years. Juneteenth became a time for reassuring each other, for praying, and for gathering with family.
Today Juneteenth celebrates African American freedom and achievement and respect for all peoples and cultures. Juneteenth was declared a Federal holiday in 2021.
Psalm of the Day
Psalm 51: 1-10,
Psalms for Praying; An Invitation to Wholeness, Nan C. Merrill
Have mercy on me, O Gracious One, according to your steadfast love; forgive me where my thoughts and deeds have hurt others.
Lead me in the paths of justice, guide my steps on paths of peace!
Teach me, that I may know my weaknesses, the shortcomings that bind me, the unloving ways that separate me, that keep me from recognizing your Life in me; for I keep company with fear, and dwell in the house of ignorance.
Yes, I was brought forth in love, and love is my birthright. You have placed your truth in the inner being; therefore, teach me the wisdom of the heart.
Forgive all that binds me in fear, that I might radiate love; cleanse me that your light might shine in me.
Fill me with gladness; help me to transform weakness into strength.
Look not on my past mistakes But on the aspirations of my heart.
Create in me a clean heart, O Gracious One, and put a new and right spirit within me.
Prayer for the Day
God of all peoples and nations, on this day of freedom, we celebrate with all people of goodwill everywhere that we might walk arm in arm towards justice for all. Breathe into us your eternal breath, that we may never tire of ensuring a flourishing life for all people, but most especially, those brothers and sisters whose growth has been stifled by the trauma of being enslaved.
O God, we know and have seen your goodness, and because of it, we cling to the hope that unity and liberation for all are within our grasp.
Be with us on our journey to be who we say we are, as we cultivate peace through justice by the intentional living of interculturality, anti-racism, and inclusion.
Continue to show us your goodness, that we may have the strength to advance your kin’dom with humility and grace. Amen
Catholic Health Association (adapted)
Photo by Ryan Runcie. Title: Contemplation of Self (2023). Ryan is known for his work addressing themes of social and racial reconciliation.