# Prayers for peace and the soul of George Floyd
*2020-05-31*

> Bill Young reflects on the civil unrest and racial injustice in the United States, offering prayers for peace and the soul of George Floyd through the Chaplet of Divine Mercy.

## A Call for Peace and Justice

Today we are praying especially for peace amidst the rioting occurring across the country. We pray for the soul of George Floyd from Minnesota, and we pray regarding the abuse of police power that led to the suffering and death of this poor man. While one officer has been jailed, I hope that justice soon comes for the other officers who stood by and let it happen. 

Beyond justice, we need prayer. I heard on the news that George's brother, Terence Floyd, asked for peace. While peaceful demonstrations are acceptable, they must not be part of the rioting and looting. It is heartbreaking to see people using these moments for financial gain through looting. Regarding the 'Black Lives Matter' movement, our Lord Jesus Christ teaches us that all our lives matter.

## Reflections on Leadership and Charity

I find it somewhat hypocritical when million-dollar athletes speak out but do not put their money where their mouth is. Similarly, looking at political figures, I think of the current Vice President. When he ran for office years ago, his declared charitable contributions were very low. As good Catholics and Christians, we are encouraged to tithe, yet his record on charity doesn't seem to reflect that. 

I've also noted the differences in justice reform. Our current president has worked to release people who were imprisoned for many years for minor offenses, such as possession of marijuana, rather than violent crimes. It is important that we have a system that is fair and just for everyone.

## Returning to the Eucharist

On a personal note, I was finally able to receive Holy Communion for the first time in about two months. I attended the 5:00 PM Mass at St. Maximilian Kolbe. The experience was unique due to the pandemic protocols; they checked my temperature, and the pews had been replaced with socially distanced plastic chairs. There were no kneelers or books to prevent the spread of germs. Despite these changes, receiving the Eucharist was a wonderful experience, and I encourage anyone who is able to attend Mass to do so.

## Overcoming Division and Hatred

It was surprising to hear that the Lincoln Memorial was defaced. Some of the younger marchers may not realize that Abraham Lincoln freed the slaves and that the Union fought the Civil War for that cause. Even Martin Luther King Jr. chose that location for his famous march for a reason. 

There are those—anarchists and socialists—who simply want to destroy the country. This is a spiritual battle between Jesus and Satan. I believe in equality for everyone. I grew up in the Bronx in a one-bedroom basement apartment; my mother was a single parent who had to rely on welfare. I know what it is to struggle. God is colorblind; He loves everyone equally. I see it even in my bird feeder—the white dove hangs out with the pigeons of all colors, seeing them as equals.

## The Chaplet of Divine Mercy

At this 3:00 PM hour, we pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy for peace in the United States and the world, and for those suffering emotionally after losing a family member to an incident that should never have happened. It is devastating that one officer's decision could cause such destruction for a family and the country. 

We begin with the opening prayer: 'You expired, Jesus, but the source of life gushed forth for souls, and the ocean of mercy opened up for the whole world.' We continue with the Our Father, the Hail Mary, and the Apostles' Creed, offering the Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity of Jesus Christ in atonement for our sins and those of the whole world.

*In times of national unrest and injustice, we must turn to the Divine Mercy of God to find true peace and the strength to seek legitimate reform.*