I come from a five-branch service family. I grew up with an appreciation for military service. And ministry to service members and veterans is dear to my heart.
Appreciation of service members and veterans, recognition of their sacrifice and that of their families, is one of many things that Becky and I have in common. This appreciation has inspired her to create the "Thank You, Veterans" display that you can see in the parish hall.
On Sunday, November 8, we will recognize our congregation's veterans. They served, and they still serve. Thanks be to God.
Then, on Wednesday, Veterans Day, we will celebrate a 5 PM Veterans Day Eucharist in the parish hall. Everyone is invited. If you plan on watching the Veterans Day parade, you can do so at St Paul's and already be here for the Eucharist.
Here is the Prayer for Heroic Service from the Book of Common Prayer (page 839):
O Judge of the nations, we remember before you with grateful hearts the men and women of our country who in the day of decision ventured much for the liberties we now enjoy. Grant that we may not rest until all the people of this land share the benefits of true freedom and gladly accept its disciplines. This we ask in the Name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Pictured here is the patron saint of veterans, St Martin of Tours, himself a Roman soldier, veteran, chaplain, monastic, priest, and bishop. His feast day is November 11, and it is not a coincidence that this is the date chosen for the Armistice that halted World War I, became Armistice Day, and eventually became Veterans Day.
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