Today we join together in prayer for all those who have died serving their country. Bless your loved ones this Memorial Day by lighting a St. Jude Vigil Light in their honor.

Memorial Day has a special meaning for our St. Jude community in Chicago. Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, which houses the National Shrine of St. Jude, suffered the loss of 12 young men from their parish during the Vietnam War, one of the highest casualty totals of any Catholic parish in the U.S.

This mural, created in 2000, is dedicated to these soldiers, and is located across the street from the church. The inscription on the mural, etched in stone, reads: “We owe so much to so few.” Both veterans and those currently serving in the military have our deepest gratitude this Memorial Day and always.