Honoring What Matters Most

+JMJ+ Today is Flag Day and the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, and our nation should rightly pause to honor the enduring symbol of our freedom and the courageous men and women who have defended it for 250 years.

Some are using the occasion to protest what they (falsely) claim is a “dictator’s birthday parade.” In reality, this military celebration was planned to mark the founding of the U.S. Army, an institution that has preserved liberty and justice across centuries. The fact that it happens to fall on President Trump’s birthday is purely coincidental. It’s not his parade. It’s a long-overdue and rightful tribute to the strength and sacrifice of our armed forces.

What’s especially refreshing is seeing government resources used to honor our military and not to fund pride parades or political agendas. After years of seeing our troops disrespected or ignored, it’s encouraging to see their service acknowledged and elevated with the dignity they deserve.

Of course, veterans deserve more than just ceremonies. They do need real, tangible support especially in housing, healthcare, and mental health care. But honoring their service publicly is not a distraction. It’s a declaration: their sacrifices matter, and we have not forgotten.

I’m not opposed to free speech, but I do wonder if individuals pouring their energy into protests are also standing up for the most voiceless and vulnerable (the unborn)? Are they on their knees praying for our leaders? Are they attending Adoration and Mass to pray for our country? Are they also quietly praying outside abortion clinics?

There’s a serious disconnect when our churches sit half-empty on Sundays while parades (such as Pride parades and events during the month of June) and political protests draw massive crowds and media attention. We gather to rally, to protest, and even to celebrate causes… but where is that same passion, that same urgency, when it comes to worshiping the King of Kings? It’s deeply troubling to witness a culture that prioritizes public spectacle over sacred worship and reverence.

It’s also interesting (and troubling) to see some of my fellow Catholics up in arms about the president or the political climate only when it aligns with certain talking points, while remaining strangely silent on issues of grave moral consequence. We hear outrage over certain decorum, rhetoric, or tone. Yet, where is that same passion when it comes to abortion, same-sex marriage, contraception, or premarital sex (just to name a few)?

As Catholics, we’re called to form our consciences according to the fullness of Church teaching, not cultural trends or personal preferences. Our moral voice in society must be rooted in truth and love and not in selective outrage. If we’re going to speak up, let’s be consistent. Let’s be clear. Above all, let’s be faithful.

America doesn’t need more outrage or theatrics. It needs intercession and it needs people on their knees humbly seeking God’s mercy, healing, and guidance.

While I may personally disagree with the tone or purpose of some protests, I will always defend the right to peaceful protest. After all, this is a right secured by the very men and women we should be honoring today.

Anyone participating in demonstrations of any kind should be the first to thank our military. Without their sacrifice, the freedom to speak out, to assemble, and even to dissent would not exist. Liberty comes at a cost and it’s worth protecting.

Today, let’s remember. Let’s be thankful and celebrate. Let’s pray. Let’s honor.

God. Country. Freedom.

God bless America.

God bless our troops. 🇺🇸

#FlagDay #Army250 #HonorOurHeroes #FaithFamilyFreedom #GodBlessAmerica