May 27, 2024

Bishop Byrne celebrates Mass for the fallen on Memorial Day

REGIONAL
Story and photo by Carolee McGrath

SPRINGFIELD – Springfield Bishop William D. Byrne celebrated a Memorial Day Mass at St. Michael’s Cemetery on State Street in Springfield, Monday, May 27 at 10 a.m. The Mass was held inside the St. Michael the Archangel Mausoleum.

“It’s so important that we never forget those who gave their lives so we can live freely. Freedom isn’t free,” said the bishop in his homily.

He also urged those gathered to promote peace in their own families and community by loving as Jesus did.

“We need to love our neighbors as ourselves in our own homes,” said Bishop Byrne.

In his Memorial Day “Spiritual Short,” which is posted on both Facebook and Instagram, the bishop said, “In commemoration of those who have given their lives in service of their country, I remember the words of Jesus when he said, ‘no greater love than to lay down your life for a friend.’ And so on this day, think of those and pray for those who have done just that.”

Memorial Day has been observed since the late 1800s, following the Civil War, to honor those who were killed while serving in the U.S. military.

“Memorial Day is to recognize the fallen soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice,” said Joe DeCaro, director of Veterans’ Services for the city of Springfield. DeCaro served in the U.S. Coast Guard.

A wreath laying ceremony followed the Mass. Members of the Springfield Veterans Activities Committee along with Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno were in attendance.

“It is because of our veterans that America is still the greatest country in the world,” said Mayor Sarno. “God Bless all of our veterans and their families, because you stood by them,” he said.

Dozens of Memorial Day Masses were held across the Diocese of Springfield, in both cemeteries and churches, to honor the fallen.