Transcript of Prayer on behalf of United States delivered by U.S. Army Chaplain (Col.) Thomas MacGregor, D-Day, June 6, 2009 Colleville-sur-mer, France
Ladies and gentlemen, please bow your heads in prayer for the invocation delivered by U.S. Army Chaplain (Col.) Thomas MacGregor. (followed by that introduction in French)
Our gracious and loving father in heaven…
We ask for the blessing of your presence on this significant event that touches the lives of the families and citizens of the grateful nations here represented.
Magnify yourself this day as we pause to fittingly remember those men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom of France and the Allied Nations during the Second World War.
Truly this is sacred ground, for it holds the remains of those hero warriors whose dreams were cut short and who have entered their eternal rest.
Many cried out to you as they breathed their last; many seeking help from him who alone is the resurrection and the light.
Oh God, salve now the hearts of those who mourn.
Grant them your comfort and peace.
Temper the memories of those whose loved one perished in the horrific conflicts at sea and on these bloody fields of battle so many years ago.
Lovingly support the family members and friends who grieve the loss of a loved one, both past and present.
Help each of us to look ahead to that grand and glorious day when you shall return, the dead shall be raised, loved ones be rejoined once again and all wars shall cease.
Oh God, speed the day of your coming , we ask.
Guard this day, the soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, and coastguardsmen of our several nations who fight for liberty and the freedom of oppressed peoples. Grant each a special measure of your presence, protection, and abiding grace.
Indeed yours is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
