Sunday Best: Election Novena 2024

 

As we draw nearer to the election I have noticed that tensions are running high on both sides of the political aisle.

It is important that we remember that no matter who wins, our loyalty is not to the princes of this world but to our God in Heaven.

America is the greatest country that the world has ever seen.  But we cannot be so without the grace of God.  We are ever in need of His providence.

Perhaps I am just getting older, but it seems like the divide between the county around election time is getting bigger.  Not only that, but the amount of angst and acrimony has increased.  I am not denying that this election has incredibly consequences.  But moreso than ever, I see the rush of fear and anxiety that grips people when the election does not turn out the way they had hoped.

The Knights of Columbus have published a novena to Mary of the Immaculate Conception, the Patroness of our country.  With Americans going to the polls and deciding our nation's course and destiny for the next four years, it is more important than ever to put that choice into the hands of our Lord and our Lady.

I will be praying this novena every day from now through election day, but the Knights particularly ask that it be prayed from October 28-November 5.  And I invite all of you to pray with me.

God Bless America!

Prayer to Mary, the Immaculate Conception, Patroness of the United States

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.