Dear Brothers and Sisters in West Virginia,
As we celebrate the Fourth of July, I extend my heartfelt greetings and prayers to all the people of West Virginia. This year’s celebration is especially meaningful as our nation commemorates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America.
Echoing the words of our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, may this historic milestone “renew the shared commitment to the promise of freedom, justice, opportunity, and democracy.”
May we honor the courage, faith, and vision of those who came before us by strengthening our communities, respecting our differences, and working together for a more perfect unity and the common good. In a world that often experiences division, may we always remember that we are called to be one people, united in our shared dignity and responsibility to care for one another.
As we give thanks for the many blessings God has bestowed upon our nation, we also give thanks for the gift of our beloved Mountain State. May the Lord, who has blessed West Virginia with such extraordinary natural beauty and with people of deep faith, resilience, and generosity, bless your families with health, safety, joy, and peace on this Independence Day and throughout the year.
May God continue to bless West Virginia, and may God continue to bless the United States of America with every good gift and with the lasting peace that comes from Him alone.
Happy Fourth of July!
Most Rev. Evelio Menjívar
Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston
