Memorial Day is a federal holiday for mourning and honoring U.S. military personnel who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. The first observance of Memorial Day occurred on May 30, 1868, and was then known as Decoration Day. Prior to this first national observance, many communities had begun the practice of laying flowers at the graves of soldiers killed during the Civil War; Mary Ann Williams is credited with the idea of laying flowers on the graves of Confederate and Union soldiers alike. It was not until 1971 that Memorial Day became a recognized federal holiday, was moved to the last Monday of May each year, and was held to respect fallen soldiers of all American wars, not just the Civil War.

What does the observance of Memorial Day mean in the Christian community? We have within our congregations those who have served the Armed Forces with honor and distinction, who take great personal meaning from the observance of this day; as well as families who remember and mourn their own fallen service members; and also those who respectfully believe in pacifism and yearn for the day when wars have ceased – and military service will no longer be required.

First, let us grieve with those who are grieving. Empathy and compassion are hallmarks of our faith – and we should join in with those who mourn on this federal holiday. Second, let us all pray for the end of all wars in the world. I know that you continue to pray, as I do, for the people of Ukraine and of Russia, for the people of Gaza as well as Israel, and for those who currently live under threat of war on this very day. And third, let us show gratitude and respect to those American service members who have given all, that our country may be free and the ideals that we profess to believe in may continue on, in the lives of our children and grandchildren.

Some questions to consider this Memorial Day:

1. Does my own family include fallen military personnel? How may I show honor and gratitude to them on Memorial Day?
2. If my plans for Memorial Day include time off from work, a summer cookout or getting together with friends – how can we show respect to our nation’s fallen in the midst of our celebrations?
3. How can I personally glorify Christ while also acknowledging my citizenship in the United States, and being grateful to God for the history and freedoms of this country that I live in?

Thank you for engaging in this brief history lesson with me! I look forward to seeing you in worship this Sunday at Trinity United Methodist Church. 

In Christ,

Pastor Dale