Fr. Jack Gleason's Thoughts on Memorial Day and Mass with Bishop Konderla

"My Grandpa Jack, after whom I am named, served in the Army in World War II.  He was deployed to the Pacific Theater, encountering fierce fighting in which many of his friends were killed.  He never talked about the specifics of the battles.  It was a subject that evoked a response of both melancholy, I assume for the friends and fellow soldiers who gave their lives, and pride, for his being a part of something sacrificial for his country.  After returning from the war, he would go on to volunteer for the Veterans of Foreign Wars for many years, serving on the state and national level.  It was his way of remembering and honoring the sacrifice of so many.  

The result for me, as his grandson, is to honor and remember in the way that we Catholics do--offering the sacrifice of the Mass for those soldiers who have given their lives in the service of freedom for others.  Memorial Day is a great way to honor that ultimate sacrifice of our men and women in the armed services.  Bishop Konderla will celebrate Mass at Saint Bernard of Clairvaux Parish this Memorial Day, May 27 at 8:30 am.  Please join us if you are able."