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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout the Big Bend and South Georgia area plan to join with people of faith across the nation in a united fast of gratitude for the blessings of religious liberty.
As the United States celebrates the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, the First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has invited all to participate in a unified fast on Sunday, July 5. This opportunity will bolster an appreciation for the longstanding freedoms that allow individuals and families to worship according to their beliefs, serve their communities, and practice their faith traditions.
“Religious liberty is one of the foundational freedoms that strengthens our communities and nation,” said Elder Kurt F. Scherer, a regional leader for the Church in the United States Southeast Area. “We’re grateful for the opportunity to worship freely, serve others, and work alongside neighbors of all faiths to build stronger communities.”
The united fast focuses not only on gratitude, but also on the significance of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and religious freedom. Local congregations within the Tallahassee Florida Stake are encouraged to participate in community outreach efforts, service, and family-centered worship during the observance.
Fasting has ancient roots across many faith traditions. By willingly going without food and drink for a brief period of time, people of faith find greater spiritual connection, express humility and gratitude, build self-discipline, and draw closer to God through focused worship.
“As our nation marks this historic 250th anniversary, we look forward to this sacred opportunity to unite in fasting across our region and throughout America,” said President Benjamin Smith, regional leader of the Church. “ We know that this shared spiritual sacrifice will draw our local families closer to God and inspire us to better love, serve, and lift those in our communities.”
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has long supported the principle that people everywhere should be free to worship, believe, and live according to the dictates of their own conscience while respecting the rights of others. The Church is a global Christian faith centered on Jesus Christ and His teachings. Its mission is to help all of God’s children come unto Him and experience His love.
For more information about the nationwide fast, visit the church’s official announcement at, https://newsroom.churchofjesuschrist.org/article/first-presidency-invites-us-saints-to-participate-in-united-fast-of-gratitude-for-religious-liberty.
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