As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, a faith-based organization named Communio is encouraging families to prioritize reconnecting and teaching children about the nation's founding principles through Independence Day celebrations.
The organization has launched its "Great American Family Fun Kit," which includes activities, recipes, and a prayer for the country. Suggestions for family engagement include trying out 18th-century slang, creating a gratitude jar, designing a family flag, and participating in an Independence Day-themed scavenger hunt.
J.P. De Gance, founder and president of Communio, stated that the Fourth of July is a significant family celebration, comparable to Thanksgiving among non-religious holidays. He emphasized that the family unit is the fundamental building block of society.
Communio aims to leverage its network of 17,000 churches across the U.S. to promote neighborhood gatherings, block parties, and community-building activities. The "Great American Family Fun Kit" aligns with the organization's belief that strong families form the basis of strong communities. De Gance noted a perceived decline in patriotism and stated the kit's goal is to connect people with the nation's founding ideals through grassroots efforts.
While the kit's activities are framed around the upcoming 250th birthday of the U.S., De Gance highlighted a broader objective: encouraging families to spend more quality time together away from screens. He suggested that even simple activities can facilitate meaningful parent-child communication, which is linked to warmer family relationships and better long-term outcomes for children, including a greater likelihood of valuing faith.
The kit also offers activities designed to engage teenagers. De Gance pointed to a scavenger hunt as an example of an activity that can unite children of various ages. He also cited rising rates of loneliness and sadness among American teenagers, suggesting that increased family time could help combat these issues. According to De Gance, teenagers who report frequent, enjoyable time with family are less likely to experience loneliness and isolation and more likely to have positive relationships with their parents.
Looking ahead, De Gance expressed a desire for a revival of healthy marriages and family life nationwide. He voiced optimism that younger generations are increasingly focusing on enduring values such as faith, marriage, and family. He concluded that the nation's future celebrations, such as its 300th and 350th anniversaries, depend on the strength of families.