Each September the United States honors Prisoners of War and Missing in Action service members, their families, and the Gold Star Families who lost their children in the service of our nation. Remembrance of those who have not returned home or those who lost their lives brings into sharp focus the importance of the Holy Eucharist and the sacraments in the lives of service members and their families.
In the Eucharist, we encounter Christ and experience His glory and His generous and abiding love. Not knowing the whereabouts of a loved one or losing a child is excruciatingly painful. Nevertheless, as Catholics we take solace in knowing that God’s love reaches its apex on the cross. God never abandons, but rather, He remains close during our hour of need.
Reflecting on God’s endless love, the painting of divine mercy comes to mind. Envisioned by Saint Faustina Kowalska and painted by Eugene Kazimierowski, the painting depicts our risen Lord dispersing the darkness that surrounds us by the two rays emanating from His merciful heart. The rays denote water and blood, which represent the sacraments through which we encounter the healing presence of God and find strength to overcome any trials and tribulations.
You and I have an obligation to provide service members with the serenity, guidance, healing, and comfort found in the sacraments, especially in the Holy Eucharist. Our collective mission to care for the spiritual wellbeing of service members and their families is impossible without a financial lifeline. If it is within your means, please consider a sacrificial gift in support of the ministry of the AMS. Every gift, regardless of size, is greatly appreciated and used to benefit service members, their families, and the financial health of the AMS for the foreseeable future.
As always, please keep our service members, their families, and the chaplains who accompany them in your fervent prayers.
Assuring you of my prayers and heartfelt gratitude, I remain
Sincerely in Christ,
(The Most Reverend) Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D.
Archbishop for the Military Services, USA