2019 Family Activity Calendar

We offer this year's theme of "God Governs in the Affairs of Men." This 13 month Family Activity Calendar is filled with original colorful illustrations statements, quotes and links to historical information and mp3 stories available for download. This information will be made available to coincide with the monthly calendar themes. For monthly information please select this link.

The Star-Spangled Banner

It may seem unusual to consider a national anthem as a Christian hymn, but in the United States of America (U.S.), certain parts of the text of 'The Star-Spangled Banner' have significant meaning for God- fearing citizens. In the third verse, the author refers to the power of God in the founding and preservation of the country. The historical account given in poetic form throughout the anthem speaks of that preservation. The basic situation surrounding the writing of the text is familiar to most Americans. The author's observation of the attack on Ft. McHenry during the War of 1812 is well documented in history. Looking into more than just the bare facts can help give additional perspective and meaning to the anthem. Why did the War of 1812 happen? Where is Ft. McHenry and why was it a target for the British? Who was Francis Scott Key and why was he on a ship in Baltimore harbor during a battle? Who was Dr. Beane? What did the flag look like in 1814? What led to the descriptions given in the text? Where did the music come from? What meaning can the anthem have for us today.

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