Congratulations to all graduates from St. Joseph Parish, particularly the graduates of St. Joseph School, whose elementary years ended on Friday night. The people deserving of most praise, of course, are parents, teachers, and others, who have encouraged the young people through the years and have prepared them to take their next step in life. In the case of Catholic education, this requires great financial sacrifice in addition to the usual support.

This weekend we honor those who have died in the service of our country. The observance began as a memorial to those who fell during the Civil War, but has been extended to the victims of all our wars. Unfortunately, war has not gone out of style.  Military men and women, as well as civilians, continue to die in violent conflicts. It is fitting to honor bravery and dedication, while at the same time praying that the human race may outgrow its irrational dependence on warfare, and that the need for such sacrifice may one day be banished from the earth.