Juneteenth is a federal holiday celebrated annually on June 19, commemorating the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. In 1865, Maj. Gen. Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of slavery, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed by President Abraham Lincoln.

Juneteenth serves as a day of reflection on the contributions of African Americans throughout U.S. history. It is a celebration of African-American culture and heritage, a time to recognize progress, and a call to continue to pursue human flourishing and justice.

For Christians, Juneteenth is more than a important historical milestone; it resonates deeply with our biblical faith. The Bible is filled with stories of God delivering His people from slavery, reflecting His desire for freedom for all. From the Exodus of the Israelites to the freedom from sin through Christ, we see a divine mandate for freedom and justice.

Paul writes in Galatians 5:13-14:

“You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.'”

Paul’s words illustrate the importance for Christians to walk in freedom, marked by a life of loving and serving others around us. 

See the following resources and features from Lancaster Bible College about this important observation:

• Director of Library Services and Church Historian Dr. Mark Draper wrote for Juneteenth that “we celebrate the advances that have been made, but is important to be mindful that it was a long, hard road. Just as the Declaration of Independence declared freedom, it did not guarantee it.” Continue reading…
• LBC Adjunct Professor Dr. Malcolm T. Byrd previously led efforts that enabled K-12 students from the Philadelphia area to learn more about Juneteenth and travel to the nation’s capital to celebrate. Read more…
• Immanuel Mason (’27), a Communication major from Philadelphia, shares how Juneteenth resonates with biblical faith. Watch below…