Memorial Day Message from Dean Churchwell

Author:
May 22, 2026

Beloveds,

On this Memorial Day, we pause to remember with gratitude and reverence all those who gave their lives in service to our nation.

Days like today invite us into holy remembrance. Across generations, countless individuals have answered a call larger than themselves — serving not only with strength, but often with profound personal cost borne by them and by those who loved them. We honor the memory of those who died in service and give thanks for their lives, their courage, and their sacrifice.

At St. Paul’s, we believe remembrance itself can be sacred work. To remember is to give thanks. To remember is to tell the truth about sacrifice. To remember is to recommit ourselves to the work of peace, justice, mercy, and reconciliation in God’s world.

As you gather with loved ones today, travel, rest, or simply enjoy the gift of this spring day, I invite you also to take a quiet moment of prayer and gratitude for those whose lives were given in service to others and to this nation.

Let us pray:
“O Judge of the nations, we remember before you with grateful hearts the men and women of our country who in the day of decision ventured much for the liberties we now enjoy. Grant that we may not rest until all the people of this land share the benefits of true freedom and gladly accept its disciplines. This we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.”
— The Book of Common Prayer, p. 839

Grace and peace,

The Very Rev. Katie Churchwell
15th Dean, St. Paul’s Episcopal Cathedral, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Learn more about St. Paul’s efforts as a Veteran/Military Friendly Congregation

 

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