Celebrating the Blessings of 250 Years of America!
Dear Friends in Christ,
Peace be with you! As we celebrate the 250th Anniversary of our great country this 4th of July, I am in awe and wonder at the countless blessings that Our Heavenly Father has showered upon us over time and yet in our day. I recently read a speech by Benjamin Franklin as the framers of our constitution were in a dilemma after working for months to write the core values of our nation’s governance. After deadlock and divisive deliberation, Mr. Franklin addressed the delegates with these profound words of wisdom, “In this situation of this Assembly groping as it were in the dark to find political truth, and scarce able to distinguish it when presented to us, how has it happened, Sir, that we have not hitherto once thought of humbly applying to the Father of lights to illuminate our understandings? In the beginning of the contest with G. Britain, when we were sensible of danger we had daily prayer in this room for the Divine Protection. Our prayers, Sir, were heard, and they were graciously answered. All of us who were engaged in the struggle must have observed frequent instances of a Superintending Providence in our favor. To that kind Providence we owe this happy opportunity of consulting in peace on the means of establishing our future national felicity. And have we now forgotten that powerful friend? Or do we imagine that we no longer need His assistance.” Mr. Franklin’s charge shifted the course of their deliberations, and they began to pray before each meeting. Soon after, the Constitution of the United States of America was completed!
As we embark upon the future of our nation and the many freedoms we are afforded by God’s grace and the sacrifices of so many over the past 250 years, we would heed well the wisdom of Ben Franklin. Let us pray for our nation, its leaders and ourselves as we seek to be good and faithful citizens, always placing God first in our lives and in our community. America was founded on faith in God and prayerful discernment. Let us carry the flag of “God First” as did our forefathers and keep prayerfully asking God’s guidance and fruitful grace upon America.
Our United States Bishops recently gathered in Florida, the site of the first Mass offered on this soil. There, they consecrated our nation to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Herein lies another great act of wisdom through prayerful discernment. Please take some time to personally offer prayers of thanksgiving for all God has blessed us with, not the least, the First Amendment, freedom of religion, to be able to worship freely and in the public square. Please take some time to pray with family and friends during this time of Independence. I highly recommend the prayer our Bishops created for us:
O Most Sacred Heart of Jesus:
You know the longings of our hearts, and you desire that we enjoy friendship with you.
From your pierced side, you have poured out the wellspring of life, for which we thirst.
Your heart burns with a love for all people to return to a right relationship with you.
We celebrate the abundant gifts you have given this nation, founded on the self-evident truths that our Creator has endowed all people with the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
We make reparation for the offenses against you and against human dignity that have taken place in this nation.
May our hearts be united to yours, so that our families and communities enjoy peace and happiness; may broken relationships be reconciled, injustices repaired, and the wounds of our land be healed.
May your holy Catholic Church serve as a sign, pointing all people to your infinite love.
O Desire of Nations and Center of History, we ask you to bless these United States of America.
Who live and reign with God the Father
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, forever and ever.
Amen.
Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, have mercy on us!
Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us!
While no nation is perfect, we are arguably blessed with so many God Given Rights – Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness! May we never take the gift of this nation for granted and may God bless each of you as you celebrate 250 years of America!
With a Father’s Love,
Father Rick Nagel