September 7

In doing a little research on Brazil's Independence Day I discovered the following:

On September 7, 1822, after receiving orders from the Portuguese parliament limiting his powers in Brazil, Pedro (whose actual name was "Pedro de Alcântara Francisco Antônio João Carlos Xavier de Paula Miguel Rafael Joaquim José Gonzaga Pascoal Cipriano Serafim de Bragança e Bourbom" (imagine the poor little boy's kindergarten name tag!) declared Brazil’s independence near the Ipiranga River in São Paulo. Tearing the Portuguese blue and white insignia from his uniform, Pedro drew his sword, and swore: "By my blood, by my honor, and by God: I will make Brazil free." Their motto, he said, would be Independência ou Morte, Independence or Death! (sound familiar? "Give me liberty or give me death!"). This statement is known as the Grito do Ipiranga [or the cry from the Ipiranga]... Pedro became Dom Pedro I, the first emperor of Brazil [who] ruled for nine years. (About.com).

Yesterday we had a church picnic in celebration of the special occasion. We had seventeen participating and had a lovely day for the activity. Our time was spent: in the pool, or playing Boccie, Frisbee, or ping-pong. It was a relaxing day of fun, food, and fellowship. It was one of those times you cherish because you get to know your people a bit better and they you. We shared our mutual Independence in Christ who in His cry of Independence said, "IT IS FINISHED!" And just think, He will rule forever! Because of His cry and crosswork we have liberty to serve one another! That is something worth celebrating!

You can see more pix of the day by clicking on our Fickr account at right.