Fortnight for Freedom

Today begins the "Fortnight for Freedom" called for by the bishops of the United States.  I hope that all will join in this VERY important effort in: 1) Raising the awareness of Catholics and others of good-will as to the true and full meaning of "religious freedom"; 2) Galvanizing support in the Church's efforts to curb the constant attacks on the freedom of religion in this country, so that; 3) Helping the United States to again become a country that not only respects true religious freedom, and benefits by the actions of those motivated by the faith in God for the betterment of society, but also advocates for religious freedom abroad.

The bishops have a web-site which will be helpful in celebrating the Fortnight for Freedom.  You might also appreciate reading this column entitled: "How Religion Fosters Freedom" by Colleen Carroll Campbell, an excellent editorial writer from St. Louis, MO.  Of course, Cardinal Dolan, now president of the US Bishop's Conference, always has worthwhile points to make as does our own Bishop William Patrick Callahan.  Check them all out, but most importantly, pray, vote, stand up and be counted!

Prayer for the Protection of Religious Liberty

O God our Creator,

Through the power and working of your Holy Spirit,
you call us to live out our faith in the midst of the world,
bringing the light and the saving truth of the Gospel
to every corner of society.

We ask you to bless us
in our vigilance for the gift of religious liberty.
Give us the strength of mind and heart
to readily defend our freedoms when they are threatened;
give us courage in making our voices heard
on behalf of the rights of your Church
and the freedom of conscience of all people of faith.

Grant, we pray, O heavenly Father,
a clear and united voice to all your sons and daughters
gathered in your Church
in this decisive hour in the history of our nation,
so that, with every trial withstood 

                                                     and every danger overcome—
                                                     for the sake of our children, our grandchildren,
                                                     and all who come after us—
                                                     this great land will always be "one nation, under God,
                                                     indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

                                                     We ask this through Christ our Lord.

                                                     Amen.