Pastor's Corner

2022 05-29  We are Reminded to Truly Appreciate Our Precious Faith and Freedom, that We Should Never Take For Granted

Written by: Father Neil Herlihy

We celebrate Memorial Day as a nation this Monday.  On this day, we remember in a special way those men and women in the armed forces who have made the supreme sacrifice in defense of our nation.  We pray for the repose of their souls, and for all those who mourn their passing from this world.  They sacrificed their lives and their freedom and helped make it possible for us to enjoy our lives and our freedom.  They were prematurely separated from family members and friends, and a grateful nation pays them homage and respect.

The following prayer by Debbie McDaniel, provided by the media outlet “Christianity.com”. implores our Heavenly Father for guidance and protection on this special day.

As we reflect on this prayer, we are reminded to truly appreciate our precious faith and freedom which we should never take for granted.  This is especially important in these difficult and uncertain times when we have witnessed a dramatic change in the fabric of our society over the last two years due primarily to the devastating impact of the    Covid-19 virus.  This change has caused us to view our faith and our freedom in a different light and made us more acutely aware of the reality that some events and circumstances are beyond our control.

As we celebrate this day and take time for relaxation and recreation, our bishops have encouraged us to also take time for prayer, truly remembering the sacrifices made by so many for us and our nation.

Dear God, we thank You for the freedom You have given us,
and for the price that was paid by Christ so that we could live free.
We remember today.  The cost of it all.  The great sacrifice for freedom,
covering and blessing over them and their families.
We pray that You would be gracious and encircle them with Your peace.
We pray for Your great favor and goodness to be evident in their lives.
Please be with all those who wear the uniform, who serve our communities and nation every single day.
We ask that You provide your protection,
that you would be their guiding force who leads the way,
and their rearguard who keeps them safe from behind.
We ask that You would draw them to Yourself amidst the dangers they face in a dark world,
for You are the Truth, You are the Way, You are the Light.  Amen.

2022 06-05   Come Holy Spirit, Come!
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