Written by: jimwideman 5/30/2010 9:30 PM
Memorial Day has a long and interesting history. Unfortunately, the generations-old story of the holiday and its beginnings has been forgotten by most people. Originally named “Decoration Day”,” it was officially proclaimed by a Union general in 1868 following the Civil War, celebrating the lives of Union Soldiers. However, it wasn’t celebrated by all — Southern states refused to recognize the holiday, instead honoring confederate soldiers on separate days. Though all states now celebrate Memorial Day, many Southern states still recognize separate days commemorating lost lives of the “boys in gray.” The term “Memorial Day” was first used in 1882, but didn’t really catch on until after World War II.
In 1921, Georgian Moina Michael conceived of the idea to recognize and support fallen and disabled veterans by selling silk “Memorial” poppies. The concept caught on nationally, and Ms.Michael was honored by the US Postal service in 1948 with a 3-cent stamp. Nice! Different days of the year were celebrated by different states for nearly a hundred years after 1868. Finally, in 1967, congress officially declared the day of remembrance to be named “Memorial Day,” and set a standard date to the last Monday of May.
This weekend my pastor wrote a prayer that our congregation prayed together it was so good I thought I'd share it here...
Dear Heavenly Father,
As we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, we think of how they have followed in the footsteps of your son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Please hold our service men and women in your strong arms. Cover them with your sheltering grace and presence as they stand in the gap for our protection. We also remember the families of our troops, and ask for your unique blessings to fill their homes and your peace, provision and strength to fill their lives. May the members of our armed forces be filled with courage to face each day and may they trust in the Lord's mighty power to accomplish each task. Let our military brothers and sisters feel your abiding peace along with our love and support. Give us leaders who will faithfully serve Jesus Christ and uphold our nation. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
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