Tuesday of the Thirteenth Week in Ordinary Time
(Genesis 19:15-29; Matthew 8:23-27)
Today the United States celebrates its independence from
England. Almost two and a half centuries
ago fifty-six men from thirteen North American colonies signed a document listing
the new country’s grievances against England.
The Declaration of Independence also stated three basic rights as its founding
principles: “…Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.”
These principles conform to our beliefs as Catholic
Christians. We hold the right to life
for every human being, from the newly conceived to the feeblest aged. We believe in a full range of liberty, not
just from external restraints but also from inner addictions like
pornography. Finally, we hope that
everyone pursues true happiness which is only attainable by following the ways
of the Lord.
Of course, we know that not everyone interprets the three
principles in the same way. We believe,
however, that pursuing life, liberty, and happiness according to the Catholic tradition
will create social harmony. It will
allow the country to celebrate its independence long into the future.
