National:

• National Zoom call 18 April.
• I have attached some interesting information to the report for our website.
• Memorial Day is 29 May 2023, Armed Forces Day is 20 May 2023.
• We should remember the true meaning of Memorial Day-honoring and remembering those who gave the last full measure in defense of our Nation. Armed Forces Day recognizes all of our Nations Armed Services and used to be observed with parades, etc. There is a mass now at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington DC. Archdiocese for the Military Services, U.S.A. Pilgrimage and Memorial Mass: the Archdiocese of the Military Services USA will host its annual Pilgrimage and Memorial Mass May 21 2023 @ 3:00 pm.
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Prayer for Our Troops

Priest: Let us pray for our brothers and sisters as they go forth with courage and determination to face the forces of violence, weapons of destruction and hearts filled with hate.

RESPONSE: THROUGH THE DARKNESS BRING US TO THE LIGHT.

Deacon or Reader:

For our Commander-In-Chief, President N.N., and our political and military leaders that they may tirelessly seek peaceful settlements to international disputes; we pray to the Lord:

That the Lord may preserve the members of our Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Air Force from all harm; we pray to the Lord:

That even in war, we may keep clearly before us the defense of all human rights, especially the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness; we pray to the Lord:

That the families, relatives and friends of our military members may be strengthened in this time of concern and anxiety; we pray to the Lord:

That the Lord may help families with men and women in the armed forces to cope with daily challenges in the absence of their loved ones; we pray to the Lord:

That our homeland will be preserved from violence and terrorism; we pray to the Lord:

That the nations of the world will seek to work together in harmony and peace; we pray to the Lord:

That the hearts of all men and women will be moved to pursue true peace and justice; we pray to the Lord:

That violence may be overcome by peace; that weapons of destruction be transformed into tools of justice, and hate give way to true charity; we pray to the Lord:

That grateful for and inspired by those veterans who have given their lives for our country we may bravely face the challenges ahead; we pray to the Lord:

Priest: Lord God, Almighty Father,

creator of mankind and author of peace,

as we are ever mindful of the cost paid for the liberty we possess,

we ask you to bless the members of our armed forces.

Give them courage, hope and strength.

May they ever experience your firm support, gentle love and compassionate healing.

Be their power and protector, leading them from darkness to light.

To you be all glory, honor and praise, now and forever.

Amen.

State: NSTR

History and Patriotism-Irish in the Military: I would ask for prayers for my brother in law who passed away last Friday from cancer. Clifford Engling was a Vietnam veteran and retired as a Master Sergeant in the US Air Force. Eternal rest oh Lord and perpetual light shine on him and give strength to his family.