One of my most prized possessions is my grandfather’s naturalization certificate. He had to learn English, which, if you consider his native language Finnish, may not have been so difficult, and he had to take a history and government test. How many of you know the first Ten Amendments to the Constitution, called the Bill of Rights?
It’s the same today. And, you had to have to pay your taxes, something that many of our wealthy so-called Americans try to avoid. When USCIS abruptly canceled the oath ceremony for hundreds of New Yorkers, you have to wonder what is going on. USCIS claims that county courts don’t meet certain requirements for the ceremony.
That’s an eight-letter euphemism for nonsense. Why the courts are now not lawful places is beyond ridiculous. What’s the real reason that the ceremonies cannot be conducted in USCIS offices in the areas where people took their test? In New Jersey, oaths are taken in Newark, Cranbury, and Mt. Laurel, in USCIS offices. How many of our so-called leaders could pass the history and civics test? Not many, I think.
Prayer for the Day
Recognizing our diversity, we come to you, O God, in gratitude,
For we know that we share a commonality even in our differences;
Acknowledging your gift of life to us, O Holy Creator, we stand in awe
For you have given us all the infinity of creation;
Enter our hearts so we are able to share your love with others,
As you have shared your love with us.
In the name of the One who shows us how to live,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
We are a nation of immigrants. Let's not make it more difficult for immigrants to become part of our nation.
Westchester County legislator David Imamura
I hereby declare, on oath, that I absolutely and entirely renounce and abjure all allegiance and fidelity to any foreign prince, potentate, state, or sovereignty, of whom or which I have heretofore been a subject or citizen; that I will support and defend the Constitution and laws of the United States of America against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; that I will bear arms on behalf of the United States when required by the law; that I will perform noncombatant service in the Armed Forces of the United States when required by the law; that I will perform work of national importance under civilian direction when required by the law; and that I take this obligation freely, without any mental reservation or purpose of evasion; so help me God.
The Naturalization Oath
The Lord is my portion; I promise to keep your words.
I implore your favor with all my heart; be gracious to me according to your promise.
Psalm 119: 37-38