October 26, 2004
A PRAYER FOR AMERICA
Gracious God, it is with heavy yet hopeful hearts that we come before You in this our nation's hour of need. With open and uplifted hands we implore You to send us help from on high that we may offer this prayer with humility and sincerity free from fear, anger, and anxiety. We come into your holy presence well-aware of our personal sins, but begging for mercy for the infidelity and ingratitude of our nation.
Father, it was You who led our ancestors from distant places weighed down by want and oppression. It was You who guided them safely over dark and dangerous waters to these shores which once glistened bright with hope and opportunity. They came poor and unprotected, yet rich in humility and strong in faith. It is their vision and values for which we now pray.
O God, help us in our age to discover once again the spiritual bedrock upon which this great nation was built. Grant us your light to illumine minds darkened and chilled in the shadow of towering pride! Cast down Divine fire to soften hard hearts and selfish wills! Bend low and set wayward steps aright upon paths made straight by Your law and made smooth by the steps of the humble and the just.
You, who we call our Almighty Creator, be now our merciful physician and friend - heal and help America! Confound and bring to collapse the schemes of the enemy! Illumine the minds and convert the wills of those he has deceived! Grant us today the hope and courage of our faith-filled ancestors! Like them, lead us on O Lord, through today's uncertain and turbulent times, and keep our eyes fixed not upon the dark waves, but firmly upon You - the hopeful horizon bright with the promise of a new life. Amen.
Fr. Glenn Sudano, CFR
Community servant (superior) residing at St. Felix Friary in Yonkers
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