Day Two: Midterm Election Countdown

Today is First Saturday, dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Most people know that under the title of the Immaculate Conception, Our Lady is the Patroness of the United States. Let us seek her powerful intercession, especially for our nation, as Election Day is three days away, as well as for our own personal petitions. 

Hail Mary, Mother of Christ and Mother of the Church!

Hail our life, our sweetness and our hope!

To your care, we entrust all the citizens who vote, the candidates running for elected offices, those who work at polling places, poll watchers, as well as everyone involved in the election process. We also entrust all families, that they may teach their children that exercising our right to vote is the civic duty of Catholics, in order to choose representatives who will best serve the common good in government.

Mother Mary, do not abandon us! 

Mother Mary, be our guide!

Mother, you are our refuge in need, and our strength against the enemy. Preserve us from all evil; may we enjoy the shelter of your peace and love. May we ever rely on the power of your name. Let all of our deeds be directed to you. Have pity on us, dearest Mother, and show us your mercy, for you are the hope and the light of all who trust in you. Your mercy and kindness are proclaimed everywhere; God has blessed the works of your hands. Present all of our prayers for the Midterm Elections, as well as our needs to your Son, Jesus. Please spare us from all distress. 

Mother Mary, please accept these intentions we bring before you. (Mention your personal petitions now.)

His Eminence, Cardinal Burke composed this beautiful prayer: 

At this crucial moment in the history of our beloved country, let us turn to Our Blessed Mother and pray:

O Most Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of Mercy, at this most critical time, we entrust the United States of America to Your loving care.

Most Holy Mother, we beg You to reclaim this land for the glory of Your Son. Overwhelmed with the burden of the sins of our nation, we cry to You from the depths of our hearts and seek refuge in Your motherly protection.

Under Your title of the Immaculate Conception, You are the Patroness of the United States. Look down with mercy upon us and touch the hearts of Your people. Open our minds to the immense value of souls and renew in us a profound respect for the sanctity of life. Bring an end to the merciless and senseless killing of the innocent and the defenseless. Please grant us the grace to understand the serious responsibilities that accompany human freedom.

May our voting in this election promote respect for all human life, safeguard the sanctity of marriage and the family, and foster the good of all.

Through Your intercession, may God bless our homes and our nation! AMEN.