In a solemn and reverent day of prayer, gratitude, and patriotism, Bishop Joseph Williams joined hundreds gathered at Saint Vincent de Paul Church in Mays Landing this morning, to remember the past, honor the present, and pray for the future, at the parish’s 3rd annual Wreaths Across America event.
With hundreds gathered in the parish parking lot, comprising active and retired veterans of the Armed Forces; high school ROTC squads; Catholic faithful; community members; schoolchildren; and local faith and civic leaders gathered in the parking lot, Bishop reminded all of the day’s purpose: “to remember those who have given their lives in service to our nation, to honor those who serve and have served, and to teach future generations the value of sacrifice and freedom.”
To that end, 2500 donated wreaths were placed on the graves of fallen veterans in Holy Cross cemetery next door to the church; the adjacent Lincoln Memorial Park cemetery, and other cemeteries throughout the area.
“As we place these wreaths, symbols of your unending love and eternal life, on the graves of these fallen, we speak their names aloud. We remember their lives, their courage, their sacrifice, and we commend their souls to your mercy. We pray for eternal rest and perpetual light,” Bishop continued.
Accompanying the people in remembrance, Bishop, with Father John March, pastor of Saint Vincent de Paul Parish; Father Cosme de la Pena, pastor of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Absecon; and Father Patrick Brady, retired priest, personally placed wreaths on the graves of fallen veterans, and on the graves of deceased priests of the Diocese.
Read the full recap of the day in the next Catholic Star Herald. See more photos here: catholicstarherald82.pixieset.com/wreathsacrossamericaheldinmayslanding/
📸 Joe Warner
#wreathsacrossamerica #CatholicCemeteries
