Happy Independence Day from Monsignor Reilly

“Patriotism is a love for everything to do with our native land: its history, its traditions, its language, its natural features. It is a love which extends also to the works of our compatriots and the fruits of their genius.” — Saint John Paul II

When the American colonies declared their independence nearly 250 years ago, the Founding Fathers traded the certainty of alliance with England for the possibility of creating a new nation.

At the heart of their efforts was the idea that people could live a better way — with more freedom, greater opportunities and strong self-governance. The nation they formed was unique in the history of the world. 

Today, the United States has shown that a nation can endure and advance through allegiance to a set of common principles.

At various times in the last quarter-millennium — external conflicts, internal strife and other social upheavals — our allegiance has been tested. But when times were the most difficult, Americans succeeded by doubling down on the principles that were established in 1776.

This weekend, I hope you find time to relax, connect with loved ones, and consider the great gift we received from the founders, who traded certainty for possibility almost 250 years ago.

Yours truly in the Lord Jesus,

Monsignor Reilly

Categories: Campus Life, Faith and Service