In Loving Memory of my Immigrant Grandparents Copyright Richard E. Whitten 2001 Oh God, Father and Provider, we praise you and thank you for the abundant blessings our nation enjoys. You have made our nation holy by our labors each day. Be mindful of our ancestors, Oh Lord, most of whom were immigrants to this nation. Like Moses, they too were "strangers in a strange land". They came to America for many reasons; some thinking our streets were paved with gold, others came here just to be alive. Many were uprooted by war, violence and injustice. They sacrificed comfort, material possessions and even family so that we, their descendants, could enjoy this nation's bounty. Forgive them all of their sins, Oh Lord. Comfort their souls in your infinite mercy. Reward them richly for their sacrifices. We, their children and children's children, humbly remember their origins, toil and tears. Help us to be grateful to them and remember always their link to the communion of saints. We ask this through Christ, Our Lord. Amen