The Archdiocese of Denver invites all military veterans and their families to rebuild a relationship with God and restore their souls at the second annual outdoor “In God We Trust” event, which will take place Saturday, Sept. 18, at the Colorado Freedom Memorial in Aurora.
This special event will start at 10:30 a.m. with confession and counseling services from Catholic organizations for those who wish to start a journey of healing. Mass will start at 11 a.m. on the blessed grounds of the memorial, with Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila as the main celebrant. As a special guest, Bishop Joseph Coffey, auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Military Services, will concelebrate the Mass and speak to participants before Mass, as well as Deacon Mike Gallagher, a Vietnam veteran who is now deacon for the Archdiocese of Denver.
The main aim of the “In God We Trust” event is to pay tribute and honor all Colorado military members who gave their lives for our country and for our right to praise God, and also to help those veterans who have lost hope and fallen away from their faith as a result of war trauma to reconnect with the Church.
The event will be co-hosted by Rick Crandall, CFM President and Our Lady of Loreto parishioner, and will feature faith-related talks, counseling, veteran resources, music by the USAFA Catholic Choir and a complimentary lunch that will be provided by the Knights of Columbus.
In 2019, the “In God We Trust” ministry began with the intention to honor and offer emotional support to veterans who have fought for God and for our country amid difficult and dangerous situations. The ministry is overseen and run by the archdiocese’s diaconate.
“Many of these veterans have come home only to lose hope and suffer unimaginable stress for their years of service to us,” Deacon Joe Donohoe told the Denver Catholic.
This ministry supports men and women who have dedicated their lives fighting for justice and liberty, and especially our freedom to worship God. Many veterans suffer when readjusting to civilian life; the “In God We Trust” ministry offers assistance and resources to help those who are suffering heal through God and the Church.
“We, the faithful people of God, are called to evangelize those who have been missing from our parish communities and challenge them to return to the faith of their parents and families; and, indeed, their ancestors,” Deacon Donohoe added.
In addition, participants will be given a “challenge coin.” This coin is meant to be given away to someone who is not going to Church. Then, the person is to take the coin to the nearest parish and present it to a deacon or priest to start their healing process and return to the Church where they belong.
“We want to honor all those who put on the uniform and left family and friends in order to be a force of goodness and unquestionable ethics,” Deacon Joe concluded.
All active duty and veterans are invited to participate and rediscover their faith. Families and friends are also welcome. Attendees are urged to bring their own chairs and/or blankets. For more information visit, archden.org/veterans.
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