President Donald Trump issued a presidential message as U.S. Catholic bishops gathered in Orlando, Florida, to formally consecrate the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, marking the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary of independence.
Consecration and Prayer
The White House statement expressed the spiritual foundations of the American republic and drew parallels to historic acts of faith by previous Catholic leaders. Trump stated, “Today, Melania and I join in prayer with Catholic Bishops gathered in Orlando, Florida, as they consecrate the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus on the occasion of our 250th year of American Independence—a powerful moment in our national story and a poignant reminder that America has always been guided by the loving hand of God.”
The consecration is a formal prayer by the nation’s Catholic bishops asking for God’s blessing and protection on the United States. It recognizes the country’s founding principles — life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness — as gifts from the Creator, as referenced in the Declaration of Independence.
Catholic Involvement in American Independence
Catholic involvement in American independence includes Charles Carroll of Carrollton, the only Catholic signer of the Declaration of Independence. Bishop John Carroll’s early consecration of the young republic to Mary set a precedent for invoking divine guidance. The current act revives this tradition nationwide for the 250th anniversary.
Catholic leaders and organizations widely welcomed the consecration and Trump’s message of support. The official U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops posted: “Today the U.S. bishops will consecrate the United States of America to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, joined by parishes and faithful across the country.”
Original reporting: The Dallas Express — read the source article.
