Hey there,
On Monday we’ll celebrate Memorial Day in the US.
It’s a national holiday … so hopefully you’ll get some extra time off work.
Sometimes I find people get Memorial Day and Veterans Day confused.
Memorial Day, which falls on the last Monday in May, is the day we remember and honor all those brave men and women who died in military service.
Veterans Day, which is always on November 11, is when we celebrate all the veterans of military service.
And the third Saturday in May is a lesser known celebration called Armed Forces Day … when we celebrate all of our active military.
To be honest, I didn’t even realize last Saturday was Armed Forces Day! It’s sad that we don’t make as much fuss over our active soldiers as we do those who are deceased and retired. To all the soldiers out there, thank you for all you do for us every day.
This week, Genuflect looks at the coming Memorial Day from a Catholic perspective. Why it’s important to remember the men and women who died to keep our freedom, several saints who were soldiers, Memorial Day prayers, and numerous ways to honor our fallen.
Enjoy your extra day off this weekend. And don’t forget to honor our fallen soldiers in your prayers.
“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Editor, Genuflect
P.S. May is also the month for a lot of First Communions. If you are looking for a special gift, take a look at these First Communion gift ideas for a girl.
genuflect: sponsor
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genuflect: resources
“Do This in Memory of me” — A Catholic Reflection on Memorial Day
Memorial Day honors all who have died in military service to our country since its inception. But why should we, as a nation and as Catholics, remember something so … grim?
Catholic Memorial Days
This weekend we celebrate the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to preserve our freedom. Did you know the Catholic Church has its own version of Memorial Days that date back two millennia, to the days of the Roman martyrs?
Seven Ways to Observe Memorial Day as a Catholic
Memorial Day is so much more than just the start to the summer season. It’s one government holiday that we can baptize just a bit. So here are seven ways we can observe Memorial Day as Catholics.
6 Saints Who Were Also Extremely Courageous Soldiers
We should always commemorate those who fought for our freedom, who gave their lives (either completely or in total service) so that we might break free from the chains of those who wish to rule us against our will and with wrongful authority, or dominate us. In our Catholic faith, many of our great saints have done the same throughout the centuries for their own countries. Here are six of them.
Virtual Memorial Day Retreat: Remembering Those Who Serve
Memorial Day is a day to remember those who have made an extraordinary sacrifice in the service of their country and local community. Busted Halo’s Virtual Memorial Day Retreat guides you through moments of reflection and thanksgiving for the soldiers, police officers, and firefighters who have given their own lives in the service of others.
15 Inspirational Prayers For Memorial Day
We are honored to remember the many brave men and women who have given their lives throughout the history of our great nation – those who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect us from harm. We salute all those now serving and we raise these prayers for their safety and blessing.
Everyday is Memorial Day For us as Catholics
Memorial Day is a very beautiful celebration that holds a special place in the heart of our nation. It’s an opportunity for us to remember and honor ALL Americans who died in battle or while serving in the military. Here’s how every day is a “Memorial Day” for us Catholics.
These Powerful Monuments Will Remind You That Freedom Isn’t Free
This Memorial Day, visit some of the most emotional and inspiring memorials erected in honor of those who have served and sacrificed for our country.
American History: Memorial Day Weekend Movies
Here are 22 films to help remember that there is much greater significance to Memorial Day than sun and fun.
20 Memorial Day Activities to Plan For Your Family
As you’re appreciating the warm weather and extra day off work participating in Memorial Day activities with the family, it’s important to remember the real reason for the holiday: honoring those who have sacrificed everything for our country. This Memorial Day, spend your time enjoying the long weekend with these family-friendly ideas.
genuflect: bonus
Honor Our Fallen Soldiers All Week on Your Desktop and Phone Background
Click below to download this week’s free Memorial Day inspirational wallpaper for your desktop and your phone.
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Photo by Simeon Muller on Unsplash
