Celebrating Veterans Day
On Veterans Day, we remember and honor those who served and continue to serve our country in the Armed Services. Originally known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day was first celebrated on November 11, 1919, on the first anniversary of the end of World War I. In 1926, Armistice Day became a national holiday, and after WWII, it was extended to honor all veterans. The first Veterans Day celebration was held in 1945.
Message from Bishop James Ruggieri
I would like to offer a special thank you to all our veterans on this occasion. Obviously, we are grateful for you and your service to our country every day of the year, but Veterans Day affords us as a nation a time to stop and reflect on your service and sacrifices made for our nation and our world. May we never take for granted the opportunities and gifts we are afforded to live in this blessed country. Also, may we never forget the supreme sacrifices made by so many in service to our nation. Please, let us also take a moment to pray for all our men and women on active duty in the various branches of the military. May God keep them safe. May God bless all our veterans in a special way today and may our dearly departed veterans rest in peace.
Prayer for Veterans Day
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. (USCCB)
Parish Celebrations
St. John Vianney Parish, Fort Kent
Veterans will be honored at St. Louis Church, 26 East Main Street in Fort Kent, during the 9 a.m. Mass on Sunday, November 9.
St. Matthew Parish, Limerick
St. Matthew Parish in Limerick will hold a Veterans Day Mass and breakfast on Tuesday, November 11, at 8 a.m. at the church on 19 Dora Lane in Limerick. The Mass will be offered for the intentions of active military personnel and veterans, living and deceased. Following Mass, there will be a breakfast in the parish hall during which all veterans present will be given a Veterans USA Flag lapel pin attached to a “Thank You for Your Service” card. Captain Doug Howell, of Navy ROTC at Massabesic High School has been invited to be the guest speaker and may bring some of the students in the ROTC program to lead the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
