Mary is the Patroness of the United State of America. The First Bishop of The
USA was John Carroll SJ of Baltimore; Bhsiop Carroll was a cousin to Charles
Carroll, signer of the Declaration of Independence. In 1846, eight years before
the dogma was solemnly defined by Pope Pius IX, the bishops of the United States
declared the Immaculate Conception to be the Patroness of the United States of
America. Since the earliest days of the Church, Catholics have believed that
Mary was preserved from Original Sin from the moment of her conception. When
Christopher Columbus came over, his flagship was named in honor of the
Immaculate Conception. A few American bishops had devotions to the Immaculate
Conception. And since that time, many cathedrals and parish churches, plus the
massive shrine in Washington, DC, have been dedicated in honor of the Immaculate
Conception. Here is a prayer that Bishop Carroll wrote a dedication to Mary as
patroness of the United States
Prayer:
Most Holy Trinity, Our Father in Heaven, who chose Mary as the
fairest of Your daughters, Holy spirit,who chose Mary as Your spouse, God the
Son, who chose Mary as Your Mother, we adore Your majesty and acknowledge Your
eternal authority. Most Holy Trinity we place the United States of America into
the hands of Mary Immaculate in order that she may present our country to you.
Through her, we thank you for the great resources of this land and for the
freedom which has been its heitage. Through the intercession of Mary, have mercy
on the Catholic Church of America. Give us peace. Bless our President and the
officers of government. Grant us a fruitful economy born of justice and labor.
Protect the family life of the Nation. Guard the precious gift of life. Through
Mary, have mercy on the sick, on all who are in need. Mary, Patroness of our land, we
give ourselves to you. Protect us from every harm. Pray for us and all we hold dear.
We ask this in the name of Your son, Jesus and our Brother. Amen
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