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On this solemn Memorial Day, the Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary pauses in reverent remembrance of the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. We especially honor and uplift the memory of our Claver brothers and sisters—members of our Noble Order—who gave their lives while serving in the armed forces. Their courage, faith, and unwavering commitment to justice and peace reflect the highest ideals of both our Catholic faith and our Claver mission. As we gather in prayer and reflection, we remember that: “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” — John 15:13 We also take pride in the often-overlooked truth that African Americans played a foundational role in the creation of Memorial Day. On May 1, 1865, in Charleston, South Carolina, newly freed Black men, women, and children held one of the first major commemorations for Union soldiers who died during the Civil War. They cleaned up a mass grave, gave the soldiers proper burials, and held a procession of thousands to honor their sacrifice. This powerful act of remembrance laid the groundwork for what would become Memorial Day. Ways to Honor the Memory of Fallen Soldiers: - Attend or Host a Memorial Mass in your parish or community. -Visit a Veterans Cemetery to pray and place flowers or flags at gravesites. -Participate in a Moment of Silence at 3:00 PM local time, the National Moment of Remembrance. -Support Gold Star Families through donations, letters, or acts of service. - Share Stories of Claver members who served and sacrificed, preserving their legacy. - Wear or Display Symbols of Remembrance, such as poppies or patriotic ribbons. - Volunteer with Veterans Organizations that serve those who continue to bear the burdens of war. - Educate the Next Generation about the meaning of Memorial Day and the contributions of African American service members. Let us continue to pray for peace, for the safety of all who serve, and for the strength to carry forward the values for which they stood. In Claver Unity, Faith, and Service, The Knights of Peter Claver and Ladies Auxiliary National Office (fb)