Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. We are not sure of its actual beginnings. Over two dozen cities and towns lay claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established.
Traditional observance of Memorial Day has diminished over the years. Many Americans have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored – neglected. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades.
Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.
In many ways, Pentecost has become like Memorial Day – increasingly ignored and neglected. Our culture has no Pentecost celebration – no gift exchanges, no saints or “ho-ho-ho’s” or decorations on the lawns of our homes. And yet, what more could we ask for than to be led into all truth, uniting many peoples in the confession of one faith, and giving to the Church the power to serve God and proclaim the Gospel message.
O Judge of the nations, we remember before you with grateful hearts the men and women of our country who in the day of decision ventured much for the liberties we now enjoy. Grant that we may not rest until all the people of this land share the benefits of true freedom and gladly accept its disciplines. This we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Father Mark
Traditional observance of Memorial Day has diminished over the years. Many Americans have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored – neglected. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades.
Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.
In many ways, Pentecost has become like Memorial Day – increasingly ignored and neglected. Our culture has no Pentecost celebration – no gift exchanges, no saints or “ho-ho-ho’s” or decorations on the lawns of our homes. And yet, what more could we ask for than to be led into all truth, uniting many peoples in the confession of one faith, and giving to the Church the power to serve God and proclaim the Gospel message.
O Judge of the nations, we remember before you with grateful hearts the men and women of our country who in the day of decision ventured much for the liberties we now enjoy. Grant that we may not rest until all the people of this land share the benefits of true freedom and gladly accept its disciplines. This we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Father Mark
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