Service to Others
When our country went to war in Afghanistan in 2001 and invaded Iraq in 2003, many churches looked for ways to keep those serving in the military and now facing the perils of war in their prayers. Many churches displayed picture of family members serving in the Armed Forces. I am presuming that is the origin of the display in the back of our church. No one on the staff can remember.
Now that those wars have ended, we will be taking down this display, thankful that these armed conflicts have ceased. We pray for those who now must carry the scars of war in mind, body or spirit. We are still grateful for those continuing to honorably serve their country through the military. We are grateful for others who serve the common good at risk to themselves such as police and firefighters. During the Covid pandemic, we give thanks for those frontline workers in our hospitals, care facilities, schools and essential services. We would not be able to provide a board big enough to honor all who serve the common good at risk or sacrifice to self.
Let us continue to honor these many individuals with words of gratitude. Express your thanks to those who continue to serve the public good. Simple words like “Thank you for what you do, especially during this pandemic” can have a strong impact. I can also help us deal with the stress of these times by acknowledging the good around us.
This Veterans” Day, let us give thanks for those-both living and deceased-who served in the military. On Thursday November 11th, for the 5:30 PM Mass, bring a picture of your loved one who served in the Armed Forces.