# Prayers for our president, Donald J. Trump
*2020-01-15*

> Bill Young reflects on the political division in America and the impeachment of President Trump, calling for Catholic prayer and charity toward all leaders.

## The Need for Charity in a Divided Time

Today is a very sad day in our country where political bias is at its extreme. Looking at the articles of impeachment, it seems clear that many in the Democratic party simply hate Donald Trump and what he stands for. I recently spoke with a woman who identified as Catholic but expressed a deep hatred for the President. I tried to explain to her that we are all sinners. Jesus sat down with tax collectors and prostitutes—people considered the worst of the worst at the time—and He forgave them.

While I might not always agree with the President's comments and believe he could be more diplomatic, we must remember that as Catholics, we are called to love our enemies and our neighbors. Whether it is Nancy Pelosi or Bernie Sanders, we must pray for them. We cannot lose the meaning of what Jesus taught us about turning the other cheek.

## The Sanctity of Life

It is heartbreaking to see how many in the Democratic party favor abortion, the killing of the most vulnerable among us: the unborn babies. We know through science that this is a human life. In some states, if a pregnant woman is killed in an accident, the perpetrator is prosecuted for two lives. This proves that the law recognizes the unborn as human beings.

I am appalled by comments like those from Michael Bloomberg, who reportedly told an employee to 'kill it' regarding a pregnancy. The media remains silent because of political affiliation. We must pray for a return to a culture of life and for the courage to protect the unborn, as they could have been future scientists or leaders who would have cured diseases or led our nation.

## Faith Amidst Propaganda

Many people are persuaded by the propaganda of the mainstream media. I don't blame people for thinking the worst of President Trump when the news is so one-sided. This is similar to how communism and socialism operate—through propaganda. I think of my own family's experience in Cuba, where the normal people received no privileges while only the Communist Party benefited.

Despite the noise, we should recognize the good being done. The President has kept his promises, made historic deals with China—including provisions for freedom of religion—and appointed conservative judges who will protect the unborn in the long run.

## Finding Strength in the Trial of Christ

As we pray the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary, I am reminded that President Trump is in good company. Jesus Christ was the most innocent man to ever live, yet He faced false claims, a rigged trial, and conviction because of the jealousy and fear of the high priests. Even the Roman leaders recognized His innocence, yet He was crucified.

Our individual trials are nothing compared to the trial of our Lord. While the President faces a difficult political battle, we can find peace knowing that God is the ultimate judge. We pray that the Senate leadership does the right thing and that the President finds the strength to persevere.

*No matter our political differences, we must pray for our leaders and remember that divine mercy is available to every sinner who repents.*