A priest says Mass for soldiers.
Every wonder what happens when a military family from your parish moves to a base overseas? In 1985, the Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS) was created by Pope John Paul II to provide the Catholic Church’s full range of pastoral ministries and spiritual services to those in the United States Armed Forces. This includes more than 220 installations in 29 countries, patients in 153 V.A. Medical Centers, and federal employees serving overseas in 134 countries. Numerically, the AMS is responsible for more than 1.5 million men, women, and children. The Archdiocese receives no funding from the United States government. Rather, the Archdiocese is solely funded by the generosity of its chaplains, men and women in uniform and private benefactors (you can find out more on the AMS website: www.milarch.org).
Your military families are a part of the only Archdiocese for the Military Services in the world. Weekly, this ministry and outreach includes Mass, the Sacraments, religious education and other ministry opportunities. We are proud to announce that Life Teen Military Ministry is now a collaborating partner with Military Community Youth Ministry (www.mcym.org) to specifically lead military teens and their families closer to Christ.
How you and your parish can join us in Life Teen Military ministry?
Pray specifically for our military families and their teenagers stationed all over the world during this time of war. Partner with Life Teen financially to sponsor Life Teen Military missionaries in Europe (go to lifeteen.com/donate, designate the funds for Life Teen Military Ministry).
Prayer for the Archdiocese for the Military Services
Almighty God and Father, look with love upon our men and women in uniform and protect them in their time of need. Give them health and stability and allow them to return to their loved ones whole and unshaken. Be with their families and sustain them in these uncertain times. Grant strength and peace of mind to the Veterans who have given their best for the country they love. Support them in infirmity and in the fragility of old age. Teach us to remember their sacrifices and to express our gratitude.
Manifest your tender care to those in the Military Academies who prepare for future service and to those who serve our Nation far from home. Teach us to remember the sacrifices of those whose efforts contribute to ensuring our way of life. Bless and multiply the priests who minister to the faithful of the Archdiocese for the Military Services. Reward their generosity and keep them faithful.
Hear us as we present our prayers to You though Christ our Lord. (adapted from milarch.org)
