Back in November, our Catholic homeschool group had a chance to visit a local civil war battlefield. We were lucky enough to have Father visit Antietam Battlefield with us! It was wonderful that Father could tag along with us on his day off. He is a huge civil war buff and provided the children with a wealth of knowledge.
We had a terrific guide who was great with the kids. He shared a ton of information but made it interesting for the kids. No boring tour guide here! The kids, Father, and all of us moms learned a lot.
Maryland Monument
The battle at Antietam is the bloodiest one day battle in American history. So many lives were lost. 23,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, or went missing after a long and bloody twelve hour battle. It is truly sacred ground.
Dunker Church
Burnside Bridge
Bloody Lane
We were blessed to visit the battle field on All Soul's Day. We were given special permission to hold Mass in the historic Dunker Church. Father held Mass and the children (and the moms) were able to experience a wonderful opportunity. I had never experienced Mass outside of a Catholic church. It was a the first time the kids and I had ever seen the black vestments used. Many of of us had never seen the black vestments used. They were beautiful.
After Mass and our tour, we headed over to the National Cemetery with Father to pray for the souls buried there. We felt honored and humbled for this time to reflect on the people who fought there, died there, and paid the ultimate sacrifice for our great nation.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord
and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May the souls of the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace.
Amen.
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