Memorial Day

Memorial Day, which originated after the Civil War, commemorates the sacrifices of those who have fought and died in the American armed forces. Interpreters have long noted the aura of sacredness that surrounds the holiday’s traditional observances, and many have called Memorial Day central to America’s “civil religion.” Evangelicals have typically been enthusiastic participants in such patriotic celebrations, but certain critics have come to fear an unbiblical conflation of God and country.

A military grave with flowers located at Arlington National Cemetery.

Why We Visit Graves on Memorial Day

Rituals of death can remind us of America’s “new birth of freedom”—and our rebirth and renewal through Christ’s sacrifice.

Memorial Day: For What Shall We Live?

Whether we wear a uniform or not, we all have sacrificial service to offer.

Do This in Remembrance

Participating in the “high holy day” of American civil religion is beneficial for Christians, so long as we do so thoughtfully.

Why Resurrection People Remember the Dead

Cory B. Willson

Keeping the memory of our deceased loved ones alive.

Memorializing the Civil War

Every May we’re reminded of the war that split our country, but the Christian stories of that struggle remain buried. Here are some facts you probably didn’t know.

Mine Eyes Have Seen the Gory

Reviewed by Elesha Coffman

Two historians tell why Christian thought went AWOL during the civil war.

General Revelations

Reconsidering Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant.

The Struggle for Lincoln’s Soul

Was Abraham Lincoln a Christian? A look at the evidence.