Thursday, June 7, 2012

Lest We Forget

For those of us in the United States, this time of year offers us a few chances to remember those who have served in our military, not only to protect Americans, but to serve the greater good on behalf of the world.

We spend Memorial Day at picnics and bar-b-ques. We enjoy the warming weather and time with friends and family.  It is a holiday that we embrace for the time it gives us to relax and enjoy the important relationships.

Yesterday was the anniversary of D-Day. As the WWII generation becomes a smaller and smaller population, this day is quickly fading to a side note buried in the side columns of our newspapers and a quiz question for tenth grade history students.

Yet, this is a time of year that we are called to remember these men and women who have served and continue to serve our nation and the world. No matter what your view on the politics of war or the current policies of the government, I do ask that you respect, honor, and in your own way serve the military men and women.

Obviously I am a biased opinion. My forefather fought for the Union in the Civil War. My grandfather served in the South Pacific. My father is retired Army and my brother served in Iraq.

Also, as we are men and women in ministry, let us not forget those who serve the soldiers, airmen, sailors, and guardsmen. The chaplaincy core is a small, but integral part of the military and so very crucial to the well-being of those in service. Here is a wonderful photo-essay of one chaplain.

Next time you are challenged because you don't have the resources promised, or adequate space for your group, or are exhausted after a week of straight night meetings, remember, there are ministers serving in far more dire conditions.



For information on the military chaplains in the United States, see the Military Archdiocese.

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