For the second year, the Diocese of Metuchen’s Holy Cross and Resurrection cemeteries will join thousands of Catholic cemeteries across the nation on May 26 in a national commemoration.
Developed by the Catholic Cemetery Conference and titled “Serving God and Country: A Memorial Day Salute to Our Heroes,” the program is meant to salute the men and women who died in combat, veterans and those currently serving.
All active military persons and veterans are invited to participate in and attend either of the two Memorial Day Masses. They will be held simultaneously at two diocesan cemeteries in Middlesex County.
The Rev. Msgr. William Benwell will celebrate Mass at Holy Cross Cemetery in Jamesburg at 10 a.m. May 26. At the same time, the Rev. Msgr. Joseph Celano, pastor of St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish, Bridgewater, will celebrate Mass at Resurrection Cemetery in Piscataway. The patriotic program will follow.
Veterans and active military personnel are being sought to participate in the Masses as flag or candle bearers, readers and gift bearers. A wreath-laying ceremony will follow the Mass. It will include honor guard participation, the playing of “Taps” and the distribution of commemorative pins to military members.
All are welcome to attend. For more information about the Memorial Day Masses or to participate, call 800-943-8400, email cemeteries@diometuchen.org or visit www.diometuchen.org/cemeteries.