A United Methodist Pastor's Theological Reflections

"But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory (nikos) through our Lord Jesus Christ." - I Corinthians 15:57


Monday, November 12, 2018

Sunday Pastoral Prayer (Nov. 11/Veterans’ Day) - Athens First UMC



[We had a very special combined worship service on Veterans’ Day, marking the 100th anniversary of WW I. We recognized our veterans by giving each of them a poppy which is traditionally associated with Veterans’ Day. These were made by our children in Sunday School. We were also blessed by having the OhioBrass ensemble join our Chancel Choir in providing patriotic music to fit the occasion. See video below. Immediately after the service, we all walked together to College Green where the community veterans’ ceremony was held. See picture below. A big thank you to everyone for making it a special and memorial Veterans’ Day!]

God of peace, we do thank you for our beautiful country. Thank you for these opportunities to honor veterans past and present who have sacrificed so much on our behalf. 

We pray for those who have served our nation and who laid down their lives to protect and defend our freedom.

We pray for those who have fought in battles, whose spirits and bodies are scarred by war, whose nights are haunted by memories too painful for the light of day.

We pray for those who serve us now, especially for those in harm's way. Shield them from danger and bring them home. Be with their families who also are sacrificing by being separated from their loved ones. Surround them with your loving presence so they do not feel alone.

Turn the hearts and minds of our leaders and our enemies to the work of justice and a harvest of peace.

Let the peace you left us and the peace you gave us, be the peace that sustains and the peace that saves us.

Christ Jesus, Prince of Peace, hear us! Lord Jesus, hear our prayer even as we pray the words you taught us to pray together saying…

“Our Father, who art in heaven…”



[Chancel Choir & OhioBrass performing the anthem, “In Remembrance” at our special Veterans’ Sunday combined worship service.]




[Top Picture: Our congregation walking to College Green for the Athens community veterans ceremony following our special veterans’ worship service. Bottom Picture: The Athens community veterans ceremony on College Green.]

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