Yesterday marked the 80th anniversary of D-Day when Allied forces landed on the beach in Normandy and began the liberation of Europe on June 6, 1944. It was a day to give thanks for all those who gave the ultimate sacrifice to turn the tide of WWII. The Book of Common Prayer includes a Thanksgiving for Heroic Service:

O Judge of the nations, we remember before you with grateful hearts the men and women of our country who in the day of decision ventured much for the liberties we now enjoy. Grant that we may not rest until all the people of this land share the benefits of true freedom and gladly accept its disciplines. This we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (p. 839)

May we continue to “remember with grateful hearts” all those in the Allied forces who gave their lives on that day, and in that war.

PrideFest is this weekend, and we are joining with other Episcopal churches in KC to both march in the parade and work a booth in Theis Park. On Saturday there will be a Pride Mass before the parade at St. Paul’s at 9:30 a.m. If you are not in the KC area on Saturday, there will also be a Pride Mass and parade in Springfield. The Mass will be at Christ Church, Springfield, at 9:30 a.m. with the parade to follow at 10:45 a.m. at Springfield Municipal Court. More information about these events can be found at pride.church. I hope you will join us.

I also hope you will join us on Sunday for our first All Parish Breakfast at 9 a.m. in Founders’ Hall, and to participate in Wear Orange Sunday. On Monday, I look forward to joining with those who registered for the Juneteenth KC Tour.

Please continue to pray for one another, for our Cathedral family, the nation, and the world.

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