Thanksgiving Sermon on American Values: Rev. John P. Newman, 1886

Discover a thought-provoking and insightful treatise that covers a wide range of topics including Christian life, sacraments, prayer, nationalism, social sciences, children's ministry, philosophy, American history, and political theory. This book, once out of print, is now back in circulation and ready to spark engaging conversations and reflections. With a unique perspective on these essential subjects, this treatise is a must-read for anyone interested in delving into these important aspects of our society and culture.

Dear Friends, I am thrilled by the overwhelming public interest sparked by the recent sermon. Enclosed, you will find the stenographic report of the discourse prepared by Messrs. Dawson and Tasker. Numerous esteemed individuals, both locally and internationally, have reached out expressing their support for the sentiments shared and urging for the publication of the sermon. I am eager to share a selection of these letters with you, as they reflect the profound impact of this important topic. Notably, as mentioned in the sermon, discerning individuals from abroad have endorsed my stance. For instance, the German community in Wisconsin has forwarded me a copy of their petition to Congress, advocating for changes in our naturalization laws to safeguard our democratic values from self-serving and uninformed immigrants. It is heartening to see proactive engagement from our international counterparts. With gratitude, Your Pastor, JOHN P. NEWMAN.

As an American citizen, whether native or foreign-born, it is important to observe the Holy Sabbath day as part of our American tradition. While it may be called Sunday, honoring a past pagan god, the true essence lies in resting on the seventh day. This rest is crucial for the dignity of labor, the balance between work and life, and overall well-being. The seventh day should be a time to unwind both physically and mentally, a day dedicated to relaxation and personal fulfillment. It is not merely a day for leisure activities but a time for reflection and cultural appreciation.

“It could have escaped your discover that round this globe is a slender zone, between the thirtieth and sixtieth parallels of north latitude, and inside that slender zone is our house. Inside that belt of energy has existed all the nice nations of the previous, and in it exist all the nice nations of the current….Look at your globe, and there may be Greece, that gave letters to the world; Rome, that gave jurisprudence to mankind; Palestine, that gave faith to our race. And right now there may be Germany, that gave a Luther to the church and a Gutenberg to science, and there may be England, swaying her mighty sceptre over land and sear. Our location is on this wake of power-within this magical zone.”