By CatholicVote | Created at 2024-11-22 21:09:44 | Updated at 2024-11-23 02:36:15
5 hours ago
CV NEWS FEED // The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS) set new records for both attendance and fundraising at its 16th annual benefit on November 16 for its ministry, Serving Those Who Serve.
Hosted by Archbishop of the Military Services Timothy P. Broglio, the event brought together 383 guests, including active-duty and retired senior U.S. military officers and their spouses, at the Saint John Paul II National Shrine in Washington, DC.
Together, the attendees raised $513,000 for Serving Those Who Serve, which provides spiritual care and support to military personnel and their families, according to an Archdiocese news release.
The evening began with a vigil Mass at the Redemptor Hominis Chapel. Archbishop Broglio concelebrated the Mass with several senior AMS clergy, including Auxiliary Bishops Neal J. Buckon, William Muhm, Joseph L. Coffey, and Richard B. Higgins (Ret.). Active and retired military chaplains also participated in the liturgy.
“We are charged to share what we have received,” Archbishop Broglio said in his homily, reflecting on the mission of the Archdiocese to proclaim the Gospel and share the message of salvation. He highlighted the role of AMS programs, including Team Saint Paul and the Vocations Program, which enable the Archdiocese to reach those in the military and provide opportunities for spiritual growth.
The Archbishop later added, “Our faith is about heaven or hell. Consequently, we want to share the message of salvation so as to open ourselves to the gifts offered and in love to make sure that others also have the opportunity to say ‘yes’ to the invitation.”
Archbishop Broglio recognized three individuals for their exceptional service to the Archdiocese. William Biggs, AMS Chief Financial Officer, and Susan L. Malone, a retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel and AMS supporter, were each awarded the Pontifical Equestrian Order of St. Gregory the Great, an honor granted by the Holy See. Additionally, Monsignor Robert R. Cannon, former AMS Chancellor, was named a “Chaplain of His Holiness” by Pope Francis.
The event continued with a dinner in the atrium of the Shrine, where attendees were encouraged to contribute to the AMS’s mission. Contributions can still be made here.
