To the Journal editor:

On this anniversary of its Declaration of Independence, our beloved nation is beset with many travails, domestically and around the globe. In 1776 the founders sought the protection of Divine Providence as they pledged their “lives, liberty and sacred honor.” At this critical time, let us pray for our country with the words President Franklin Roosevelt offered on D-Day, 1944:

“Almighty God, our sons, pride of our nation, this day have set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our republic, our religion, and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity. Lead them straight and true; give strength to their arms, stoutness to their hearts, steadfastness in their faith. They will need Thy blessings.

“For the enemy is strong … success may not come with rushing speed, but … we know that by Thy grace, and by the righteousness of our cause, our sons will triumph. They will be sore tried, by night and by day, without rest — until the victory is won … As we rise to each new day, and again when each day is spent, let words of prayer be on our lips, invoking Thy help to our efforts. And let our hearts be stout …

And, O Lord, give us faith … faith in Thee; faith in our sons; faith in each other … Let not the keenness of our spirit ever be dulled. Let not the impacts of temporary events, of temporal matters of but fleeting moment — let not these deter us in our unconquerable purpose. …

“Thy will be done, Almighty God. Amen.”

Patrick F Brennan

Marquette