A prayer for our nation as Fortnight approaches

In anticipation of the Fortnight for Freedom, which begins June 21 and continues through July 4, Ed Mechmann of the Archdiocese of New York's Family Life/Respect Life offers a reflection on the trajectory our country seems to be on in terms of religious freedom and various "mandates" that will require Catholics to go against the teachings of their faith in order to uphold the law of the land. The Fortnight is an initiative of the U.S. bishops in an attempt to draw attention to threats to religious liberty.

From Ed Mechmann over at Fathers For Good:

Just over four years ago, my wife and I had the privilege of attending the beautiful Mass offered by Pope Benedict XVI at Yankee Stadium. Like many in the stadium, we were caught up in the power of the event – the leader of the Church around the world had come to our home town and was celebrating the Eucharist in the heart of New York. It was the pinnacle of the Holy Father’s visit to our nation, and a wonderful moment for us as Catholics.

Throughout his visit to America, the Holy Father spoke in such positive terms about our nation's legacy of freedom. At the time, it would have been easy for most Americans to overlook the significance of remarks like these:

In this land of religious liberty, Catholics found freedom not only to practice their faith, but also to participate fully in civic life, bringing their deepest moral convictions to the public square and cooperating with their neighbors in shaping a vibrant, democratic society. Today’s celebration is more than an occasion of gratitude for graces received. It is also a summons to move forward with firm resolve to use wisely the blessings of freedom, in order to build a future of hope for coming generations.

How prophetic the Holy Father has proven to be. Just a few years after that papal visit, we are faced with a panoply of threats to our fundamental religious liberty...continue reading HERE.

For more information on the Fortnight for Freedom, click HERE.