Now that the election is over, and the transition to a new presidential administration is under way, millions of bruised and battered U.S. voters are left to wonder what the future holds for their country. This isn’t the first time.

Providentially, during this time of the year, the Church urges us to ponder the four Last Things — death, judgment, heaven and hell — and dedicates the month of November to the souls of the faithful departed in purgatory.

And, after the Solemnity of Christ the King, Advent will follow. It’s important for us to put our trust and hope in our true King, the Lord of Heaven and Earth.

However worn-out from the political season we may be, and however daunting the challenges we face, it’s our duty as Catholics to continue to participate in the civic life of our country with a sober but vibrant hope. As Pope Francis has said, it all starts with our relationship with Christ.

Let us continue to fight for the ideals upon which the United States was founded, and let us be bolstered by our ultimate hope in Christ, who does not disappoint.

God bless you!