SOME THOUGHTS ON VETERANS' DAY

Veterans’ Day this year marks the 100th Anniversary of the end of World War I -- “the war to end all wars”.

Each year since, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, all those who fought and all those who have offered their lives for the sake of freedom and liberty in every conflict around the globe have been remembered along with their widows and orphans who suffered their loss.

This year, in a very special way, Veterans’ Day reminds us of two fundamental truths which have been part of human history.

First, the almost universal dream of “war never again” has never be realized.  Man’s fallen nature will always get the better of him and the forces of evil and darkness have found ready and willing allies to besiege this world with the death and suffering that comes from human conflict.  Perhaps not until all things are reconciled in Christ at His Second Coming will evil be finally purged from Creation.

Second, there will always be patriots who step forward and offer themselves on the altar of liberty.  No matter how self-absorbed a culture might be, there will always be those exceptional men and women who place others before themselves to the point of laying down their lives so that other might live in freedom.  

Once again this Veterans’ Day,  we remember both the villainy of those who would cause ruin and wreak havoc upon humanity even as we remember what is most noble and sacrificial in the hearts of so many who have given their lives for our sake.

At Masses this weekend, I truly hope that the bravery of so many was truly celebrated as our parishes joined in prayer for the fallen and for all those who have served our country and the cause of human liberty.  Their memory inspires what is best in each of us.

God receive the souls of those who defended us in battle and grant them eternal rest.  Bless all those who suffer their loss and mourn their sacrifice. 

Dear Lord, bless and protect all those who wear the uniform and man the front lines and provide us the umbrella of security under which we live our lives without fear or repression.

Dispel from the earth the powers of darkness that inspire hatred within so many disturbed souls.

Turn our  hearts and minds to you and help us avoid our conflicts and live as sisters and brothers this day and forever.