30 May 2016

Msgr. Pope on Memorial Day

"What is honor? The full etymology of the word is debated, but what seems most likely is that it comes from the Latin word honos, which, though translated as 'honor,' also points to the word 'onus,' which means 'weight' or refers to something heavy. Hence, to honor someone is to appreciate the weight, significance, or burden of something he has done. It is to acknowledge that he carried a great burden well, that he withstood a heavy load, that what he did was weighty, significant.

"For many, Memorial Day means the beginning of summer. To others, it's a day off to go shopping. But as I am sure you know, Memorial Day is really a day to honor those who have died in the service of our country, those who carried a great burden so that many of us did not have to."

In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on Memorial Day and on the importance or remembering those who gave their lives in the service of our nation.

To access Msgr. Pope's complete post, please visit:

Community in Mission: Remember! On Memorial Day (29 MAY 16)

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