This past Tuesday, November 12, the Church celebrated the memorial of St. Josephat who was a bishop in the early 17th century. He was Polish and grew up in the Ukrainian Orthodox Church. He served as the Archbishop of Polotsk from 1618-1623 and died a martyr's death on November 12, 1623. His efforts to promote unity between the Eastern and Western Church were in large part the cause of his martyrdom. He died seeking to bring Christians together at a time when others had strong feelings and actions in the other direction, toward seeing others who disagreed with them as the enemy. Exactly one week before the memorial of St. Josaphat, many people in our country went to the polls and made their choices among the candidates who were on the ballot to lead them for varying periods of time, starting in January, 2025. In light of the continued polarization that this country faces with some seeing fellow Americans who disagree with them on a variety of positions as being "the enemy", I say we not only needs the prayers of saints like Josaphat to inspire a more Christian heart and response toward those who disagree with them on one or usually a variety of issues, but also inspiration from the Spirit of unity, to try to understand and work with others to come up with solutions and policies that truly benefit the common good. It seems to me that in most recent times (or maybe longer) people on the extremes of positions have had too much voice and influence that has led to hard feelings and a stalemate when it comes to getting things accomplished. Also, in the area of religions in our country it is important that we applaud and promote those who strive to find common ground and mutual respect for those who do not believe as they do. There are more than a few things in most religions that unite us rather than divide us, and we should pray that sincere efforts to work together be supported and prayed for on a daily basis. The history of our country and the even longer history of the Church has shown time and again how much good happens when people start with basic respect for others (especially those who disagree with them) and a readiness to work toward solutions that are considerate of the wisdom of all sides and of course, reflect first and foremost the mind and heart of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

As we prepare to celebrate the feast of "Christ the King" (November 24) to close out the Church year, let us pray that we will always have the perspective that looks beyond what this or any other country stands for and be committed first and foremost to the King of heaven and earth in thought, word and deeds. Striving to be united in him, we can live in these seemingly troubled times in peace with God and with one another!