November 4, 2009

Liturgies, events to mark Veterans Day

By John Gleason

Denver Catholic Register

Veterans Day is observed on Nov. 11.  Originally established as marking the end of the First World War (the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918 when the armistice was signed) it now is a day when all who have worn a uniform in defense of the United States are honored.  Many celebrations will be held in the coming days to remember all those who have served our nation.  Below is a list of some of the tributes.

St. Joseph Church, Fort Collins
The public is invited to pay special tribute to all U.S. veterans as well as those personnel presently serving our country at a Mass set for 9 a.m. Nov. 6 at St. Joseph Church, 300 W. Mountain Ave., Fort Collins.  Those who appear in uniform will be escorted in by an honor guard.  A reception will follow in the church hall.  Call 970-484-1171 Ext. 223.

St. Mary Church, Littleton
A special Mass to honor all veterans will be held at 9:15 a.m. Nov. 6 at St. Mary Church, 6853 S. Prince St., Littleton.  An appreciation brunch will follow.  All veterans and their families are invited. Call 720-283-4733 for details.

Veterans Day Parade
The annual Veterans Day Parade, sponsored by the city of Denver, will be held at 10 a.m. Nov. 7. The parade will start and end at Civic Center Park, 14th Avenue and Court Place. It will travel around the park and down Broadway in front of the viewing stand.  After the parade, a special tribute will be held at the Colorado Veterans Memorial.

Blessed Sacrament School
Blessed Sacrament School, 1973 Elm St., Denver, will give special recognition to all veterans as well as those personnel currently serving in the armed forces during a Communion service in the church at 8:10 a.m. Nov. 11.  Keynote speaker is retired U.S. Air Force Col. Thomas McCarthy.  There will also be a musical tribute and reception immediately following the service.  Everyone is invited. Call 303-377-8835 for more information.

St. Mary School, Littleton
At 1:45 p.m. Nov. 11 St. Mary School, 6833 S. Prince St. in Littleton, will hold a Veterans Day ceremony in the gym to honor all those who have served in the military. The event will consist of students performing patriotic songs and a flag ceremony.  All veterans and their families are invited to be part of this special celebration as the children thank them for service to their country. 
Christ the King Church
Christ the King Church in Denver will pay tribute to those who have served our nation with a Veterans Recognition Celebration.  Mass will be held at noon Nov. 15 in the church located at 830 Elm St., Denver.