Memorial Day

May 30, 2016

As Americans, on Memorial Day we remember those who died in the service of our country. And as Catholic Americans, we also reflect on the meaning of true freedom and thank God for the Church which proclaims the way to the fullness of that freedom. One reason why we are willing to fight and die for freedom is because the need for freedom is imprinted into our very nature. This is why we fight for it for others.

God of power and mercy, you destroy war and put down earthly pride.
Banish violence from our midst and wipe away our tears, that we may all deserve to be called your sons and daughters.
Keep in your mercy those men and women who have died in the cause of freedom and bring them safely into your kingdom of justice and peace.
We ask this though Jesus Christ our Lord.  R/. Amen.