The Fourth of July - Independence Day. A day we celebrate with fireworks, cookouts and family get-togethers. A wonderful way to remember our freedom; let's make sure we don't forget the author of that freedom!
When reflecting on the concept - and the fragility - of freedom, I'm reminded of the oft-unknown fourth verse from our national anthem: (boldtype added):
O thus be it ever, when freemen shall stand
Between their loved home and the war's desolation!
Blest with victory and peace, may the heav’n rescued land
Praise the Power that hath made and preserved us a nation.
Then conquer we must, when our cause it is just,
And this be our motto: “In God is our trust.”
And the Star - Spangled Banner in triumph shall wave
O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave!
Francis Scott Key clearly wanted to let the reader know that there is a Power greater than us when composing the letter that ultimately became the words to the Star-Spangled Banner, a Power that we ignore or supplant at our peril. Sadly, we are seeing the fruits of that ignorance in our world today: insults to the dignity of life, marriage and family; a denial of objective truths and attempts to reshape reality in our (and not God's) image. It is not surprising that many who have bought into this radical individualism direct much of their anger towards the Church (as the expression goes: "The teachings of Jesus comforts the afflicted and afflicts the comfortable.")
On this day in which freedom is celebrated in such a special way, please be sure to take a moment and express thanks to the One to whom all good things come. Perhaps this prayer offered by the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Sacred Heart Monastery may be useful:
God of justice and Lord of all, you guide all of creation with fatherly care.
On this Independence Day, we recall the day when our country
took its place among the family of nations.
You reveal that those who work for peace will be called
your daughters and sons.
Continue to send your Spirit to touch the hearts and minds
of all who cherish the rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.
As you have called us to be one nation, grant that under
your providence our country may share your blessings
with all the peoples of the earth.
We ask this through our Lord, Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit for ever and ever.
May the Sacred Heart of Jesus bless you, your loved ones
and all those who believe in the promise of peace and good will.
Amen.
A blessed, safe and Happy Independence Day to all!
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord!
Sunday 9AM Live-stream Mass
Although the dispensation from Sunday Mass has ended, we will continue to offer live streamed Mass on Sundays at 9AM for those unable to come to church due to illness, infirmity or distance.
Please note that outdoor Communion following this Mass will no longer be offered due to diocesan decree.
See this weekend's Mass on YouTube at https://youtu.be/p4r81F1Ncw4
Please note that outdoor Communion following this Mass will no longer be offered due to diocesan decree.
See this weekend's Mass on YouTube at https://youtu.be/p4r81F1Ncw4
Faith At Home for the month of July continues the focus on returning to Mass in person and providing tools for all families to connect to the faith.
To access these resources, go to www.dioceseoftrenton.org/faith-at-home (en Español at www.dioceseoftrenton.org/fe-en-casa)
May God continue to bless us and keep us close to Him.