“I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, . . . , one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” (Pledge of Allegiance)
Thirty Residents and some family members joined the Sisters and staff to honor our flag and country Thursday morning in St. Mary’s Home’s newly planted garden. This was the first time this year that all of the Residents had a chance to get outdoors as a group and the weather could not have been more ideal. Each of us was given our own flag to hold as we sang songs that expressed our national heritage and recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
Many of our Residents are veterans or their family members are serving our country as active military. This reception is our way of honoring all the sacrifices made on our behalf and to show our gratitude to God our Father for blessing us with a wonderful country that we call home and for our flag that represents it.
After we finished our historical trivia contest, we concluded our little ceremony with the following prayer that I would like to share with you.
A Prayer for Our Country
Almighty God, you have given us this great land as our heritage. We humbly pray that we may always remember your generosity and faithfully do your will. Bless our land with honest industry, truthful education and an honorable way of life. Defend our liberties and strengthen the resolve of the people who have come throughout the world to make America their home. Lead us to choose the harder right instead of the easier wrong. Help us to appreciate the opportunities that are ours as we struggle to bring harmony to an unsettled world. May we balance our concern for justice with a willingness to display mercy, and may our concern for security be tempered with a willingness to take risks which will produce worthwhile change for the good of all people. O Lord, we pray for your guidance as we work together for the best interest of our communities, or nation, our world and the ultimate goal of peace. When times are prosperous, let our hearts be thankful and in troubled times may our deepest trust be in you. Amen. (Chaplains’ Service Book of Prayers)
Photo: (l to r) Mother Patricia Mary joins Residents Charlotte Meany and Shirley Ampt in celebration.
Unfurling our Gratitude