Honoring Juneteenth

Honoring Juneteenth: A Day of Freedom and Faith

June 19—known as Juneteenth—is the oldest nationally celebrated commemoration of the ending of slavery in the United States. On this day in 1865, two and a half years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the freedom of enslaved African Americans. What followed was a moment of delayed liberation, marked by both sorrow and celebration—a truth-telling moment in American history that continues to resonate today.

Juneteenth is a time to reflect on our nation’s painful past, to honor the resilience and contributions of Black Americans, and to renew our shared commitment to racial justice and equity. In our shared baptismal life, and as a church always seeking to be made new, and in our collaborative commitment as members of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA), we are called to confront racism, seek truth, and walk in the light of Christ’s liberating love.

May this day remind us that freedom is a sacred gift, and our call to love our neighbor includes dismantling systems of oppression, listening deeply to those who have been silenced, and acting with courage and compassion.

A Prayer for Juneteenth

God of freedom and justice,

We give thanks for the day when news of emancipation reached the last enslaved people in our nation.

We remember their resilience, their faith, and the generations who followed
—bearing burdens no one should have to carry.

Forgive us for the ways we have been complicit in racism,
silent in the face of injustice, or slow to respond to your call for equity and truth.

Stir in us a holy restlessness
to pursue your vision of beloved community—
where all are welcomed, valued, and free.

Bless those who continue the work of justice and reconciliation,
and strengthen your church to be a witness to your liberating grace.

In the name of Jesus, who sets us free,
Amen.

The office locations of the East Central Synod of Wisconsin will be closed on June 19th, in recognition and honor of Juneteenth.