A Prayer for Courage, Respect and Equal Rights

On November 12, the U.S. Supreme Court held hearings on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) case. In a show of solidarity, Jesuit Volunteer Brianna Ledsome (pictured above) led the Prayer for Peace and Justice that day. The prayer also coincided with Georgetown University’s Jesuit Heritage Month activities. With the 30th anniversary of the murder of six Jesuit priests and their companions in El Salvador just days away on November 16, Brianna offered the following remarks and prayer. 

“I was so blessed to spend time in El Salvador this spring, and so I was very humbled to be invited to do the Prayer for Peace and Justice today reflecting both on the Jesuit Martyrs just days away from the 30th anniversary of their death, as well as reflecting on DACA on the day the Supreme Court is hearing cases. The discernment and reflection I experienced in El Salvador was the reason why I discerned becoming a Jesuit Volunteer. So, I am offering this prayer both for DACA, and of remembrance.

Please pray with me…

Dear Lord,
May the courageous example of the Jesuit Martyrs and their companions encourage us in our quest for respect and equal rights for all men and women.

We pray for DACA recipients- for their protection, their dignity, their hope- and for ourselves as allies. That we may boldly lift our voices- as the Jesuits did- as advocates. That we may remember our own times of uncertainty and fear, and authentically stand in solidarity with those for whom DACA has brought light and hope.

We pray for those who are affected by inhumane immigration policies each day, that they maintain hope. We pray for the nine justices of the United States Supreme Court, that they and policymakers alike may have the wisdom to see, and uphold the dignity of all people regardless of immigration status.

Amen.”