Joseph Cao: “I want to close with a prayer for the Saints, delivered by Archbishop Philip Hannan at the first Saints and Sinners…”

“I want to close with a prayer for the Saints, delivered by Archbishop Philip Hannan at the first Saints and Sinners Banquet in 1968. It reads: ``Our heavenly Father, who has instructed us that the `saints by faith conquered kingdoms and overcame lions,' grant our Saints an increase of strength and faith 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 power, 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.''”