FLAG HOISTING

Flag Hoisting

Dr. Mervyn Carapiet

            Our patriotism does not stand under the claim of an exclusive nationalism, any more than loving one’s mother implies despising other mothers. Our country plays a rôle in the ensemble of nations, which is greater than itself. Different countries exist that they might enrich one another. Today especially we need to ensure that the call up of patriotic feeling is not based on selfish retreat. It is within our country and through it that we must work for the world’s renewal. Such action presupposes that our country exists and is in robust health, which in turn supposes moral discipline. Corrupt individuals do not make for a strong nation. Even this is not enough, for a country that wants to be strong must also be loved. And our love for India is not real unless it bears fruit in love and fair treatment for all its citizens, whoever they may be. This is consonant with God’s desire for nothing less than complete human authenticity, which offers a wide palette of enriching attitudes. Freedom is a necessary risk. God took a “risk” with his creation, and since he has conquered the human heart through the pierced and risen heart of Jesus Christ, we can confidently hope that the nation, self-assured in its material and human resources, will undergo a change of heart, and that all will yet be well.

            While to the present leaders we pledge our co-operation, we recall with affection the leaders who have died, so also our brave soldiers who shed their blood on the field of battle. A nation that forgets its past has no future and deserves none. The future, as far as we can see, is shadowed in trials, and calls on our courage. But the best stories of heroes are about those striding bravely into an unknown tomorrow, full of risks. So, trusting in one another’s loyalty and, above all, in the God of exodus, who will lead us, we march with strong hearts and firm steps, for we “have many miles to walk and many promises to keep.”

INTERCESSORY PRAYERS:

Our response is: Lord, hear our prayer.

1. Let us pray for the Church leaders, especially Pope Francis, bishops, priests and religious, that they may be able to lead the Christian flock in the path of true love and freedom.

2. We shall pray for the political leaders of our country, that they may be guided by the grace and wisdom of God to selflessly promote justice and equality among the people.

3. Heavenly Father, you guide and lead this Republic of ours. We thank you for the freedom, peace and prosperity we enjoy. Guide our steps in our march towards true freedom, true happiness, true peace and true salvation.

PRAYER: Bishop Desmond Mpilo Tutu (1931 - )

Bless our beautiful land, O Lord,

with its wonderful variety of people, of races, cultures and languages.

May we be a nation of laughter and joy,

of justice and reconcilement, of peace and unity,

of compassion, caring and sharing.

We pray this prayer for a true patriotism,

in the powerful name of Jesus our Lord.