Memorial Day

Memorial day was originally called Decoration Day. It is a day of rememberance for those who have died while serving our nation. It was originally proclaimed a holiday on May 5, 1868 and first observed on May 30, 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of the soldiers at Arlington National Cemetary. At first it was proclaimed to honor those who had lost their lives during the civil war, but was subsequently changed to honor those Americans who had died in any war.

Many Americans have forgotton the meaning and traditions associated with Memorial Day. They no longer know proper flag ettiquette, the traditions and our heroes are being forgotten.

The poppy flowers that use to be common on this day are rarely seen. They inspired a woman named Moina Michael to write her own poem:

We cherish too, the Poppy red
That grows on fields where valor led,
It seems to signal to the skies
That blood of heroes never dies.

She then wore and sold the red poppies in honor of those who have served, later selling them to raise funds for soldiers in need.

Please remember those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for your freedom today....Teach your children what is quickly being forgotten.

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:17

Please join us in our prayers for the men and women of the Armed Forces Of The United States Of America and other countries who are now in harm's way in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other parts of the world. We thank them and their families for their sacrifices.

We are grateful for the ultimate price of freedom paid by those fallen. We pray for strength and courage for the POW's and missing in action and those held hostage.

We pray for the protection and safety of selfless relief workers and missionaries who help those in need.

We pray for the protection of children and innocent civilians.

We pray for our nation and our leaders.

In Jesus Holy and Precious name
Amen
(taken from christianity.about.com)