by Faith Central & Steve Welsh
“Archbishop Charles Chaput and three other U.S. Catholic bishops urged support for an executive order on religious freedom from President Donald Trump in a statement they issued Feb. 16.”
“The House voted Thursday to allow states to choose not to fund #PlannedParenthood and other #abortion providers with federal dollars, repealing an #Obama administration rule from December. …”
“On Monday, President Donald Trump reinstated the Mexico City Policy, an international pro-life regulation …. The executive order was signed January 23, one day after the anniversary of the far-reaching Roe v. Wade decision …. Originally instituted by President Ronald Reagan in 1984, the Mexico City Policy states that foreign non-governmental organizations may not receive federal funding if they perform or promote abortion[] as a method of family planning. …”
“… Pro-life leaders have welcomed the overall finding of a smaller #abortion rate, although they raised some questions about the accuracy of the report. …”
“‘At a time when our human family is beset by grave humanitarian crises demanding far-sighted and united political responses, I pray that your decisions will be guided by the rich spiritual and ethical values that have shaped the history of the American people and your nation’s commitment to the advancement of human dignity and freedom worldwide … Under your leadership, may America’s stature continue to be measured above all by its concern for the poor, the outcast and those in need who, like Lazarus, stand before our door.'”
“… In the prayer, #Solomon acknowledges that #God made humankind ‘to govern the world in holiness and righteousness and to render judgment in integrity of heart.’ The king continues by asking God for wisdom, ‘the consort at your throne, and do not reject me from among your children.’ Solomon also pleads with God to send wisdom ‘that she may be with me and work with me, that I may know what is pleasing to you.’ He asks that his ‘deeds will be acceptable and I will judge your people justly and be worthy of my father’s throne.’ …”
“… the real work of applying our #Catholic #faith to building a culture of life happens between our trips to the voting booth. …”
“Most Holy Trinity: Our Father in Heaven, who chose Mary as the fairest of your daughters; Holy Spirit, who chose Mary as your Spouse; God the Son, who chose Mary as your Mother, in union with Mary we adore your majesty and acknowledge your supreme, eternal dominion and authority.
Most Holy Trinity, we put the United States of America into the hands of Mary Immaculate in order that she may present the country to you. Through her we wish to thank you for the great resources of this land and for the freedom which has been its heritage.
Through the intercession of Mary, have mercy on the Catholic Church in America. Grant us peace. Have mercy on our president and on all the officers of our government. Grant us a fruitful economy, born of justice and charity. Have mercy on capital and industry and labor. Protect the family life of the nation. Guard the precious gift of many religious vocations. Through the intercession of our Mother, have mercy on the sick, the tempted, sinners — on all who are in need.
Mary, Immaculate Virgin, our Mother, Patroness of our land, we praise you and honor you and give ourselves to you. Protect us from every harm. Pray for us, that acting always according to your will and the will of your divine Son, we may live and die pleasing to God.
Amen.”
