Sunday, May 22 isn’t Memorial Day, but it might as well be at Grace Lutheran Church.

Every year, the church holds a veterans service the week before the holiday to honor current and former service members.

Although the speeches, members and guests may change a little every year, the message is the same.

“It gives you a sense of yes, indeed, we must do this,” said Lavona Johnson of Grace Lutheran’s worship committee. “We must remember them while they are living.”

Among regular services, with the welcoming, confession and forgiveness by Pastor Jeffrey Forbes, one can expect flags of every military branch, an expanse of red geraniums and the songs of each military branch.

This year, Malcolm McDonald, retired active duty Army and reserve, will present a multifaceted speech, “The Soul of a Soldier.” He said it’s about the veterans of Austin, their families, children and the community.

“The favorite place in life of a vet is Austin,” McDonald said. “It’s home.”

McDonald also plans to talk about current affairs, our nation’s leaders and the services of today’s military.

The service is the only one of its kind in Austin; but it’s not something Grace Lutheran members are bragging about. The public and members from all denominations are invited to join.

Grace Lutheran’s memorial service usually draws about 200 people, which crowds the church. However, Johnson said people should attend regardless, as fewer World War II veterans are alive each year.

“It won’t be long, and there won’t be any left,” she said.

One thing Grace Lutheran’s memorial service never lacks is emotion. McDonald, and members of the worship committee recognized the service as an honor more than anything. Among honoring the veterans, it is an honor for them to be a part of the service.

“It’s very emotional, and there are tears, which are good tears,” Johnson said. She added, “When you see all those (veterans) standing there, you kind of get the goosebumps.”

The services begins at 9:30 a.m.