Prayer and the Holidays
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Ramadan
This year, Ramadan begins on September 1, 2008. Observed by Muslims around the world, the holiday of Ramadan is a time for spiritual purification achieved by fasting, self-sacrifice and prayers. Celebrated during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims fast each day of the month from sunup to sundown. Muslims may break the fast […]
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A Prayer for Labor Day
Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and
economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have
made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.The first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September […]
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History of Memorial Day: Traditions & Origins
Ever wonder about the origin of the American holiday, Memorial Day? Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a holiday of remembrance and traditions for soldiers who have died in our nation’s service. There are many legendary stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the […]
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Easter Traditions
As with many other Christian dates, the celebration of Easter extends beyond the church. Since its origins, it has been a time of celebration and feasting. Today it is commercially important as well, seeing wide sales of greeting cards and confectionery such as chocolate Easter eggs, marshmallow bunnies, and jelly beans!
Throughout the United States, the […] -
A Prayerful Observance of Easter
A prayer for contemplation on the timeless message of Easter
Lord, You have arisen forever
In my heart!
May the sunrise
Remind me to shine in Your light
May the caress of a gentle breeze
Remind me of Your compassion
May the fragrance of a flower
Remind me to blossom in Your love
May the singing of birds
Bring a song of joy to my […] -
Jewish Passover Traditions in America
Pesach, or Passover, is the eight-day Jewish holiday observance commemorating the freedom and exodus of the Israelites (Jewish slaves) from Egypt during the reign of Pharaoh Ramses II.
Jewish Passover Traditions
Passover is a special holiday time of family gatherings and lavish Jewish meals called Seders. Traditional Seder meals include foods that represent part of the Passover […] -
Religious Expression in the Public Square During Holy Days
In 1998, attorney Mathew D. Staver, Esq. wrote that, “Nativity scenes on public property and religious Christmas carols in the public schools are rapidly disappearing from American culture. The loss of religious consensus and the “separation of church and state” myth have contributed toward the demise of
America’s Christian heritage. In the 1970’s the American […] -
Thanksgiving Day Prayers, Traditions, and Reflection
With Thanksgiving Dinner just around the corner, we’re nearing the beginning of the Holiday Season, you know that hectic time period between Thanksgiving and New Years, which can include a number of interfaith celebrations like Christmas, Hanukah, Ramadan or even some of those national celebrations like the pigskin game and the parade to name just […]