Prayer for National Unity

      WHEREAS, Pope Francis has reminded us that the Social Doctrine of the Church teaches that politics is one of the highest forms of charity and that all Christians, therefore, have the responsibility to answer the call of the Apostle Paul to “Pray for all people, and for the king and all in authority (1 Timothy 2:1-2),” and if a leader supports policies or acts contrary to Christian teaching, one’s prayers can be for the leader to change his ways; and

      WHEREAS, the Knights of Columbus has historically encouraged prayers for national unity through nationwide prayer campaigns, such as those novenas undertaken in July 2016 for the healing of divisions afflicting the United States, in November 2016 for the U.S. Presidential Election, and in January 2017 before the U.S. Presidential Inauguration.

      NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that we offer prayers for all government officials that the Holy Spirit may counsel and provide them with the insight and wisdom to keep their countries on a path consistent with the Divine Will that we invoke daily when we pray the Lord’s Prayer; and

      FURTHER RESOLVED, that we encourage all members of the Knights of Columbus to pray for their elected leaders and government officials in the hope that they will work to defend life and to honor the religious consciences of all citizens; and

      FURTHER RESOLVED, that we encourage all of our members to pray that the political discourse and governance of their countries remains peaceful and respectful and that the deep wounds of division may be healed so that all may act united for the common good and protection of all.