Patriotism and Faith

When Father Lambert and I were first getting to know each other, I asked what he liked about being here in the United States. His first answer: he admires our patriotism! Our love of our country is admirable and virtuous, and we have many reasons to be proud of the many blessings, protections, and freedoms we enjoy in the U.S.A. We are also showing our love for our country when we challenge one another and our leaders to live up to those high ideals, including respect for life, freedom of religion and of the press, and the rule of law. One of the reasons I love “America the Beautiful” so much: it includes both the blessings and (in verse 3) the constant need for improvement in how we live. This is important for our country, and for how we live our faith in the community of the Church as well!