BY BOB HUNT: Special to The Pilot

The first Independence Day patriotic reading since terrorists took down the Twin Towers in New York City and severely damaged the Pentagon with hijacked airliners turned into missiles is coming up June 30 at The Community Congregational Church in Southern Pines.

And for the Rev. Michael J. Garber, church pastor who started the now traditional event, it will be his last rendition of “I Am the Flag of This Great Nation” since he has resigned the pastorate effective July 28.

The reading, complete with special music, has become a landmark in the Sandhills area and will be presented at the 10 a.m. worship service on Sunday, June 30, four days prior to the 226th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

Garber started the reading as part of the church’s special observance of the July 4 national holiday 26 years ago, about the time he took over as pastor of the church, located at 141 North Bennett Street in Southern Pines.

This year’s reading is expected to include a reference to the terrorist attacks last Sept. 11 which resulted in a tremendous loss of life. The basic theme of Garber’s reading remains unchanged but a few of the milestones of American history have been added over the passing years.

Organist Marijo Brown said that some members of the church choir, which is on vacation during the summer months, will be present along with other area musicians to provide patriotic songs to accompany Garber’s reading.

Garber’s surprise resignation was announced to the congregation during worship services on Sunday, May 16. He assumed the pastorate in 1976.

“I believe that now is an appropriate time to terminate my ministry in Southern Pines,” the 61-year-old Garber wrote in a letter to Church Moderator Bill Wilson. “The church is in sound financial condition, the congregation is composed of caring and loving people and the lay leadership has never been stronger in their dedication and talent. A new minister with fresh ideas and energy will, I am sure, prove to be beneficial to the work of this church in this community.”

Garber said he was interested in finding a part-time interim position with a church “that will use what skills I have to offer. Mostly I’m looking for a post for a couple of days a week. I’m not looking for a full-time job.”

Garber said he and his wife, Mary, plan to retain their membership in the church and have no present plans to leave the area.