Boston Archbishop Henning Visit in Honor of Veterans Day
By Deirdre Salvas, public affairs specialist
In honor of Veterans Day, Boston Archbishop Richard G. Henning visited the VA Boston Healthcare System Nov. 4 and 6, 2025, to meet with Veterans, staff, and chaplains at the Brockton and West Roxbury campuses.
“It was a privilege visiting the Veterans Administration facilities,” said Henning. “During those visits, I had the opportunity to speak and pray with many Veterans and hear about their service and something of their unique stories. I am so grateful to them, and to so many other men and women for their service to our nation.”
Henning, who has served as Archbishop of Boston since 2024, added, “I am also grateful to the chaplains who provide spiritual care, many of whom are Veterans themselves. I am grateful to the priests of the Archdiocese of Boston who have served or continue to serve our service men and women around the world. To all of these, I say thank you for your service and God bless you on this Veteran’s Day.”
Henning was joined by Rev. Paul Wargovich, retired Maj. Gen. Rev. Paul Hurley, Army Veteran Brian Concannon, and P.J. O’Connell, vice president of philanthropy for the Archdiocese of Boston. The delegation met with facility leadership, offered prayers in campus chapels, and visited care units including the Community Living Center and acute care units.
Held in recognition of Veterans Day, the meetings were marked by moments of reflection and gratitude for those who served, and for the caregivers and staff who continue that mission every day.
“These visits provide an opportunity to express gratitude and remind our Veterans that their service and sacrifice are seen, valued and remembered,” said Karen Acerra-Williams, VA Boston’s associate director for the Brockton campus.
VA Boston’s Spiritual Care and Chaplain Service supports Veterans, families, caregivers, and employees of all faiths and backgrounds, offering compassionate, nondenominational care to promote spiritual well-being for all who are interested.
Learn more about VA Boston’s Chaplain Service at www.va.gov/boston-health-care/chaplain-services/.