[StBernard] 1968 Prayer: 'Saints Conquered Kingdoms'

[Westley Annis]

1968 Prayer: 'Saints Conquered Kingdoms'
NEW ORLEANS -- On All Saints Day in 1968, the New Orleans Saints were born,
and not without the blessing of the local Catholic Church.

Fearing that naming the team the "Saints" would be viewed as sacriligious,
but with the desire to do so as the announcement would come on all Saints
Day, the owner went to then Archbishop Philip M. Hannan for permission. Not
only was permission granted, but Archbishop Hannan became an original "Who
Dat" -- a long-time fan that still attends the Saints home games.

At the inaugural Saints and Sinners Dinner, Hannan presented the "Prayer for
the Saints." Below is the text of that prayer, and here is a PDF file of the
prayer for printing.
http://www.wdsu.com/download/2010/0126/22343260.pdf


God, we ask your belssing upon all who participate in this event, and all
who have supported our Saints. Our heavenly father, who has instructed us
that the "saints by faith conquered kingdoms... and overcame lions," grant
our Saints an increase of faith and strength so that they will not only
overcome the Lions, but also the Bears, the Rams, the Giants and even those
awesome people in Green Bay.

May they continue to tame the Redskins and fetter the Falcons as well as the
Eagles. Give to our owners and coaches the continued ability to be as wise
as serpents and simple as doves, so that no good talent will dodge our
draft. Grant to our fans perseverance in their devotion and unlimited lung
powered, tempered with a sense of charity to all, including the referees.

May our beloved "Bedlam Bowl" be a source of good fellowship and may the
"Saints Come Marching In" be a victory march for all, now and in eternity.