Rev. Dennis McCarty will observe the 250th anniversary of our nation's founding with: "How Religious Was George Washington?" How did Washington himself negotiate the complex religious tapestry of the new United States? Rev. McCarty will review a bit of the history and try to draw lessons for our 21st century journey.

Today we reflect on the lead-up to the Declaration of Independence made by 13 separate colonies. Over 250 years as a republic, its people have continued to shape this country in response to the varied values and longings among us. Our past is complicated and our present is filled with pain, but the future remains open.