History
Sunday, November 11, 2018, marks the 100th anniversary of the armistice that ultimately concluded “the War to End All Wars” (aka World War I). Ever since November 11, 1919—one year after the peace agreement—Armistice Day has been observed as a national day of remembrance in all Allied nations.
In 1954, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed a bill proclaiming November 11 as Veterans Day (changing the name of Armistice Day to Veterans Day) and called upon Americans everywhere to rededicate themselves to the cause of peace. The stated purpose of the new holiday was “to thank all veterans who have served the United States of America.”
Alliance Veterans
On behalf of federal chaplains representing The Christian and Missionary Alliance, we would like to encourage our churches to take time during their services to honor and thank Alliance veterans for their military service, acknowledging that they have sacrificed for their country and done their duty toward the cause of freedom.
Above all, continue to pray for our veterans, our Armed Forces, and chaplains. Not only does prayer strengthen, serve as a shield, and provide safety for those often serving in harm’s way but it also focuses our gratitude upon the source of our nation’s prosperity and blessings.
Resources
Consider using one of these resources:
- Download the Bulletin Insert
- Download the Poster
- Download the Social Media Graphic
- Read the Prayer of Gratitude and Blessing
- Read the Letter to Veterans
Prayer of Gratitude and Blessing
God, blessed be Your glorious name, and may it be exalted above all blessing and praise. We’re thankful for the sacrifice of the veterans in our Alliance family. Remind them that You are the strength of their hearts and their portion forever. They have made You their refuge; they will tell of all Your deeds. Let them, Your beloved, rest secure in You, for You shield them all day long and they rest between Your shoulders. Please bless our veterans and their families with the confident knowledge that You are with them always and they have nothing to fear (Nehemiah 9:5b; Psalm 73:26b, 28; Deuteronomy 33:12).
Letter to Veterans
Dear Veterans,
On behalf of chaplains representing The Alliance in military chaplain ministries, we extend to you a word of deep appreciation for your support of our military. Because of your service and dedication, our country is a safer place.
One definition of a veteran is an individual who signed a blank check payable to our country for an amount up to and including his or her very life. When our country called, you answered the call and demonstrated a love for others and our wonderful nation. Thank you for your service!
Military veterans, today we honor you. In fact, our military honors and remembers you every day as we call to mind your distinguished service. According to the Uniformed Services Code, at Retreat, you are remembered when the flag comes down at military installations around the world.
Ceremonially, when service members fold the flag at the end of the day, each fold of the flag represents something meaningful. The first triangular fold defines our flag as a symbol of life. The second triangular fold is a symbol of our belief in eternal life. The third fold renders honor to our veterans in remembrance of the veteran who has departed our ranks who gave a portion of his or her life in the defense of our country to attain peace throughout the world.
Veterans, you are now part of that distinguished group, a most unique and most honored alumni. Your actions will call to our minds the highest respect and gratitude.
On this Veterans Day, our chaplains say thank you to all our veterans who have served. May the Lord bless you, strengthen you, and make you fruitful in ministry for Him.
“Blessed is the nation whose God is the LORD” (Psalm 33:12).
Sincerely,
Chaplain (COL) Kevin M. Pies
Chaplain (COL) David Bowlus
Chaplain (LTC) Robert W. Collins, II (Retired)
Sources: GlobalResearch.ca article; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, 2017 Veterans Day Resource Kit for Teachers