Military service is typically not equated with stewardship. I could argue that, in many respects, young men and women who answered our country‘s call to serve are great stewards! There are countless definitions and interpretations of "stewardship." Merriam-Webster defines it as “the careful and responsible management of something entrusted to one’s care.” Some could say our military does more to "protect" or "defend" our freedoms than "manage" them for us. Still, through our country‘s conflicts and battles, it was the gifts and talents, and the character and fortitude, of brave American citizens that stepped forward to do their part to defend us against dictators and tyrants and defend those who could not fend for themselves. In our parish, we are blessed by those with similar values — they lead and support our ministry efforts throughout the year and they deserve our gratitude. They have the same kind of servant mentality a military person does … the call they answer is different. Though my military days are behind me, I will still take my family to a cemetery on Memorial Day, as I have done for 20 years, to visit with and pray for those whose voices were silenced in war. I will thank them for their sacrifices which enabled me to live the life I have lived. I hope you and your families have similar traditions … ones that extend beyond the cookouts, chores, and home projects many of us undertake that day. Thank you to all our parish families who have lost loved ones who were stewards of our nation‘s freedoms and ideals through the years! All of our fallen, especially those we have known, will never be forgotten. — Jeff Plate, Director of Stewardship and Development