Weekly Meditation

We Americans share concern for the welfare of our country these days of serious challenge. Our faith teaches us that we have a responsible call to faithful citizenship. We have various duties as citizens. As Catholics and with all other religious people we believe in God's care for us and our privilege of prayer for God's blessings.

Here is an excerpt from the "Prayer for the Civil Authorities" first delivered in 1791 by Bishop John Carroll of Baltimore:

We pray Thee O God of might, wisdom and justice! Through whom authority is rightly administered, laws are enacted, and judgment decreed, assist with Thy Holy Spirit of counsel and fortitude the President of these United States, that his administration may be conducted in righteousness and be eminently useful to Thy people over whom he presides; by encouraging due respect for virtue and religion;  by faithful execution of the laws in justice and mercy; and by restraining vice and immorality.  Let the light of Thy divine wisdom direct the deliberations of Congress and shine forth in all the proceedings and laws framed for our rule and government, so that they may tend to the preservation of peace, the promotion of national happiness, the increase of industry, sobriety and useful knowledge; and may perpetuate to us the blessing of equal liberty. Amen.

Bishop William R. Houck
President Emeritus, Catholic Extension