The Diocese of Orlando celebrated Memorial Day by calling upon God to let the souls of those who have died rest in peace.

“Today we honor all men and women who have sacrificed their lives while serving our country!” the diocese wrote on Facebook. “May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.” 

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) also posted a prayer for the faithful to send up on Memorial Day. It reads: “God of power and mercy, you destroy war and put down earthly pride. Banish violence from our midst and wipe away our tears, that we may all deserve to be called your sons and daughters. Keep in your mercy those men and women who have died in the cause of freedom and bring them safely into your kingdom of justice and peace.” 

Catholics in America often commemorate Memorial Day by attending Mass at a local cemetery, Catholic Digest explains. They are also encouraged to get involved with charitable organizations that provide services and resources for veterans. 

In the 1980s, St. Pope John Paul II established the Archdiocese for the Military Services as a way to provide pastoral care and ministry to members of the U.S. military. The Archdiocese for the Military Services has more than 220 installations in 29 different countries. 

More than 4,600 Floridians gave their lives in military service in World War II, Museum of Florida History records indicate.