Undelivered speech reflects Kennedy's strong Catholic ties

[UrbScotty]

For those who continue to ruminate on Kennedy's truncated legacy, the words have become something of an unintentional last will and testament -- a soaring call for progress in space exploration, civil rights, national security, foreign aid and even in critical thinking.

And it quoted freely from the Bible, invoking broad religious sentiments that may seem surprising coming from Kennedy. The nation's only Roman Catholic president is better known for proclaiming a strict separation of church and state during the 1960 presidential campaign, seeking to allay fears that he would take orders from the Vatican.

"We, in this country, in this generation, are -- by destiny rather than by choice -- the watchmen on the walls of world freedom," the text said, alluding to Isaiah, chapter 62.

"We ask, therefore, that we may be worthy of our power and responsibility, that we may exercise our strength with wisdom and restraint, and that we may achieve ... the ancient vision of 'peace on earth, good will toward men,' " the text continued, quoting from the angels' announcement of Jesus' birth in Luke 2.

http://www.post-gazette.com/news/nation/2013/11/22/Undelivered-speech-reflects-Kennedy-s-strong-Catholic-ties/stories/201311220137#ixzz2lOimv7YL

[IrishAyes]

1. Your link and rug's will provide good reading and food for thought.