Dear Friends, Sisters and Brothers,
As we gather to commemorate OXI Day, October 28, 1940, the Feast of Victory that recalls the valiant struggle of the Greek People against Fascism, we call to mind all the heroes of our current time, who give of themselves – even their very lives – to stand up for freedom and democracy here in our blessed Country, and around the world.
This annual observance of the OXI Day Foundation reminds all of us of the price of freedom and cost of liberty. I am particularly honored and pleased to join with all of you – the honorees and attendees of the evening, and invoke on all our behalf this simple prayer:
Let us pray.
May God, the Savior and the hope of all the ends of the earth and of those far off at sea; Who is ever-merciful and all-loving – keep us worthy of the sacrifices of our martyred brothers and sisters who have gone before us, and keep us strong in our dedication and devotion to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness by every human being.
May He bless all the honorees and their families, and all those gathered to hold in dear memory the acts of “no greater love” that we have assembled to pay respect, honor and indeed glory this evening.
And for those fallen heroes of war, martyrdom, exile and grievous suffering, may they rest with the righteous, with their bones resting easy beneath the grassy earth, so that together – we the living and they that are now asleep in the hope of the Resurrection – may offer to You, our Mighty King, a song of thanksgiving and praise, forever and ever. Amen.