Have among yourselves the same attitude that is also yours in Christ Jesus, Who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. -Phi 2:5-6
Friends, God is good, all the time. To you, our beloved parishioners, friends, and faithful citizens, today, we repeat the nation's founding, monumental words, In God, We Trust. This trust we have in God also compels us to pray for the peace of America and strive to build a strong nation.
Americans love their country. But they love their country because they love their families first. The love of family is integral to American life. The love you show for this nation is an extension of the love you have for your family. You work hard to provide for your families and protect them. You work hard to continue the excellent work of building a great nation for your children and posterity. The family you love includes those who have passed and whose memories live with you. You visit their graves and give them flowers because you still have their memories with you and believe they belong to you. Last Sunday, our sister parishes of St. Isidore and St. John had a beautiful memorial service for all deceased members and families who passed since last year as part of the All Saint celebration at St. Isidore. Yesterday, we celebrated the All Souls' Mass to commemorate and pray for all our beloved parishioners, families, and friends who have departed from us over the years at St. John. In their memories, we lit candles. May they continue to rest in the peace of God.
As the country concludes this year's voting today, it should be each person's deep desire to maintain the right attitude of peace, which is harmonious with the peaceful country your forebears left in your care. St. Paul urges us in the first reading to let our attitude be like that of Christ. Out of humility, Christ left his divinity to come to the earth to share in our humanity. It is to keep our interest and salvation in front of him that he was willing to sacrifice for us; he was willing to obey the Father and die for us.
Taking Paul's words into account, add to the Christ-like attitude, the commitment and dedication of your peace-loving mothers and fathers who passed this nation on to you and apply their perspective as well. They maintained peace for their children and grandchildren. You must also build on that peace for them. Trusting in God then, let each of us put up the best conduct today and the days that follow the elections, guided by the understanding that Americans always set the pace.
Prayer blessings: Entrusting a peaceful election to the maternal care of Mary, the Immaculate Heart of Mary, we pray:Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, or sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired by this confidence, I fly unto you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother. To you do I come, before you I stand, sinful and sorrowful Mother of the Word Incarnate, despise not my petitions, but in your mercy, hear and answer me. Amen.