A Time Of Trial

A Time Of Trial

Submitted by Thomas Stidl

         As we experience a time of trial in the world in late October 2023, we keep our faith and hope for a better world to come.  Right now, as I see it, Gaza and Hamas are creating great peril for Israel with the senseless slaughter of the innocent, which is probably being financed by Iran.  In another part of our world the Peoples Republic of China is attempting to force its will on the free Republic of China (Taiwan).  Also let us not forget the Ukraine/Russia war, which is creating havoc in Europe.  All of these conflicts can be tied to a very weak policy decisions in our country that has destroyed the good will of the previous administration on our US Mexican border.  At this point in time no one knows the great peril waiting for our country.

         This is not the time for any Catholic to sit on their hands.  It is instead time for action.  All of us should invoke protection from above.  Let us start with our own personal protection.  Remember, as a child that we learned that we have a guardian angel who is always us from birth to death.  He is our constant companion who watches over us and still sees God on his throne.  Today, let us rebegin to recite that wonderful prayer.  “Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God’s love entrusts me here.  Ever this day be at my side to enlighten, to guard, to rule and to guide. Amen.”  Let’s recite this prayer twice a day and more if needed.  One other idea just crossed my mind.  Talk to your Guardian Angel.  He was given to you for a reason and thank him for all his assistance.

         There is another prayer that we should pray also and add to our arsenal for protection.  This prayer was formulated by Pope Leo XIII to protect the Church from the devil and all his minions.  It was said at the end of every Mass around the time of Vatican II.  The prayer is as follows:  “Saint Michael, the Archangel, defend us in battle.  Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the evil one.  May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, oh Prince of the Heavenly Hosts by the power of Almighty God, cast into Hell Satan and all evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.  Amen,”

         My humble plea is for the Catholic Church to reinstate this prayer at the end of each Mass.  All individual Catholics should say this prayer at least twice a day and more times when we need further assistance.  This is a prayer for personal protection, national protection, global protection, and ecclesiastical protection.  The senseless killing of all human beings must stop.  Let us all pray for that to happen.

         Until next time, Laus Tibi, Christe.  Deo Gratias.  Gloria Tibi Domini.  Praise be to God.  See you in Paradise.