Dear Parishioners,
This weekend, our country celebrates Memorial Day as we remember and pay tribute to all the men and women who have sacrificed their lives in war serving our country to keep us free and safe. Initially, they fought and died to liberate us from the tyranny of the English crown; but later on, it was to defend not only our rights but the freedoms of other nations from unjust aggression and conquest. Today, we see that continuing in the Ukraine, and pray for an end to hostilities over there.
Of course, this Sunday and every Sunday, we Catholics should focus on Jesus who is the model of self-sacrifice for the good of others, namely the human race. He defeated the unjust aggression of Satan, not by the force of arms but by stretching out his arms on the cross and surrendering his life in obedience to the Father’s will. So today we celebrate the final act of the Paschal mystery the Ascension of our Lord following the Resurrection, Death, and Passion of Jesus.
Several weeks ago, we celebrated V E Day, the victory of the allies in Europe that put an end to war over there. But while Satan and the forces of evil have been overcome, they continue, in a diminished way, to do battle with us. And the only way we can win is by following the example of Jesus and surrendering our wills in obedience to that of the Father.
Happy Memorial Day!
Fr. Carl
