Dear friend,<\/p>\n
Happy Memorial Day weekend! We take this time each year to remember those who died while serving in the military. As a Christian, I often think how unfortunate it is that we need a military. We all know the reality of the world and the reality of human conflict. This reality mandates that we provide protection.\u00a0 All of us know people who have served or are currently serving in our military. Many of us have loved ones who died during service. This time of year is a great opportunity to join in prayer of thanksgiving for the willing sacrifice of time, love, and sometimes life of our armed forces. Please continue to pray for those who are currently in war torn areas of the world, that they will return home safely.<\/p>\n
The Diocese of Peoria celebrates the Mass of the Ordination of Priests on Saturday of Memorial Day weekend each year. This year, Deacon Daniel McShane will be ordained to the priesthood. This is time of joy and celebration for him, his family, and the Diocese. The majority of our priests gather for the Mass to welcome new priests. Please continue to pray for vocations to the priesthood. I personally believe more men are called to the priesthood then those that find their way to ordination. Part of the mission of all in the Church is supporting others in finding the right vocation. This involves a prayerful reflection on the call to marriage, the right person to marry, or a call to ministry in the Church. We can all pray more for a culture of vocations, that encourages all to see one\u2019s life vocation as a call to serve family and the Church.<\/p>\n