The Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS) USA reached a new fundraising milestone Nov. 15 at its 17th Annual Benefit, drawing the largest crowd and financial support in the event’s history, according to an emailed archdiocesan press release.
The archdiocese raised $530,000 at the event in Washington, D.C., according to the release. The funds will support the AMS’s efforts under its mission, “Serving Those Who Serve,” which includes providing chaplains, sacramental preparation, pastoral counseling, and administrative infrastructure for Catholics in uniform and veterans receiving care.
The evening began with a Sunday Vigil Mass celebrated in the Redemptor Hominis Church, at the St. John Paul II National Shrine. Archbishop Timothy Broglio presided and thanked participants for what he described as an “abundant and generous response” in support of Catholic military chaplains and the wider AMS community.
In his homily, Archbishop Broglio reflected on the Gospel passage from Luke 21:5–19, urging perseverance in faith amid adversity and encouraging attendees to “consider what is important” as the liturgical year nears its end. He reminded the faithful of life’s spiritual urgency, noting that while death is inevitable, it “is a passage into the fullness of that life into which we were baptized.” He also stressed that this recognition should prompt active engagement, not passivity, citing the Second Letter to the Thessalonians’ reflection on the need to live in readiness and use one’s talents.
senior AMS leaders Auxiliary Bishops F. Richard Spencer, Neal J. Buckon, William Muhm, Joseph L. Coffey, Gregg M. Caggianelli, and retired Auxiliary Bishop Richard B. Higgins concelebrated the Mass. Retired and active-duty military chaplains who were present included Monsignor Anthony Frontiero, Father Mark Rutherford, and Father Paul-Anthony Halladay. Seminarians, deacons, and lay service members from multiple branches of the armed forces also participated in various liturgical roles.
Following Mass, guests gathered for a sit-down dinner in the shrine’s atrium. There, Archbishop Broglio acknowledged the work of clergy, staff, and supporters who enable the archdiocese’s global mission, which spans military installations and VA medical centers worldwide.
The archbishop thanked the AMS’ Advancement Department for organizing the benefit; to the Knights of Columbus for serving as hosts; and to the staff of the Saint John Paul II National Shrine. He also recognized the Saint John XXIII Foundation, noting the legacy of its namesake, Pope John XXIII, who served as a military chaplain during World War I.
The AMS, established by Pope John Paul II in 1985, serves more than 1.8 million Catholics worldwide connected to the U.S. military and federal services.
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