This Tuesday, November 11th, as a nation we celebrate Veterans Day. In a special way on this day, we are encouraged to honor our men and women who have served in the armed forces and sacrificed so much on behalf of our country. Many of us have loved ones who now have Veteran status. Through their unselfishness and dedication, they made it possible for us to enjoy the freedoms provided in our nation. We should appreciate their sacrifice and service and never take them for granted. In addition, we should also remember the great sacrifices made by military chaplains who are Veterans and who have faithfully served the spiritual needs of our men and women in the armed forces and their families.
A we know, many of the Veterans in our nation continue to strive to adapt to civilian life. Catholic Charities in Atlanta has made a concerted effort to assist Veterans to obtain adequate housing and has also provided needed spiritual, emotional, and financial support. In addition, our Veterans Administration hospitals and treatment centers continue to strive to make necessary improvements in order to provide appropriate ongoing care for Veterans in need.
Archbishop Timothy Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services, USA, in a recent Veterans Day address, stated, “Please stop today, remember, and say a prayer for our Veterans. Especially, we cannot forget those who continue to suffer the effects of their wounds either in mind or in body. They carry the reminders of their commitment and their past with them always. We ask the Lord to give them consolation and healing.” He further noted, “The occasion is also propitious to remember the families who mourn the loss of a loved one or who support a disabled veteran. We pray and offer them our support.”
The following “A Prayer for Gratitude to Veterans”, from the media outlet, “Prayerlit”, reflects the essence of our appreciation for the sacrifice of our Veterans:
Dear God,
today we pause to reflect on the brave men and women
who have served our country with unwavering courage.
We thank You for their sacrifices, their strength, and their dedication.
Lord, bless each veteran with peace, healing, and comfort,
knowing their efforts have been deeply appreciated.
May they feel Your love surrounding them today and always.
Thank You, Lord, for the freedom we enjoy through their service.
Amen.
As we reflect on this prayer, we are encouraged to continue to honor our Veterans through our prayers and expressions of gratitude, always appreciating their commitment and sacrifice.