In 1864, in response to growing sentiment, representatives of Quebec, Ontario, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island met in Charlottetown (PEI) to negotiate a federation of their provinces. On 1 July 1867 the British Parliament formally approved the agreement, and this day is observed as the National Day of Canada. Although the day is primarily a secular holiday, many churches hold services with appropriate prayers, such as the following (Anglican Church of Canada, Alternative Services Book).

Prayer (traditional language)

Almighty God, whose wisdom and whose love are over all, accept the prayers we offer for our nation. Give integrity to its citizens and wisdom to those in authority, that harmony and justice may be secured in obedience to thy will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

Almighty God, whose wisdom and whose love are over all, accept the prayers we offer for our nation. Give integrity to its citizens and wisdom to those in authority, that harmony and justice may be secured in obedience to your will; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever.

...and may the leaders of Canada and the United States consistently do what is good, right, and necessary to preserve the longstanding bonds of friendship and respect between our two nations.

Remark: The above explanation may seem a bit perfunctory, especially when compared with the longer post for Independence Day (USA) on 4 July. I reply by pleading ignorance. If Canadian readers wish to supply relevant background material, I will try to take it into account in revising. Those of other countries whose national days are being ignored altogether may feel free to drop us a line, too.