Memorial Day 2011 - Remembering Father Capodanno and all who died serving our country

On this solemn Memorial Day, let us remember the service men and women, and chaplains who gave their lives so that we can be free. Say a special prayer for them and for their families who remained behind.

Picture source

Prayer for the Canonization of the Servant of God Father Vincent Capodanno
Heavenly Father, source of all that is holy, in every age you raise up men and women who live lives of heroic love and service. You have blessed your Church through the life of Vincent Capodanno, Vietnam War Navy chaplain, who had the “courage of a lion, and the faith of a martyr.” He was killed in action offering medical assistance to the wounded and administering last rites to the dying on the battlefield. Through his prayer, his courage, his faith,  and his pastoral care he is an example of laying down one’s life for one’s friends: Jesus told us that there is no greater love than this. If it be your will, may he be proclaimed a saint! We ask this through Jesus Christ, Our Lord. Amen.

Prayer Source: Father Vincent Capodanno.

I recently found out that Father Capodanno was the next door neighbor of my mother's pastor's mom. They grew up together as children in Staten Island.