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US Army: Experiencing Christ in Christmas

January 15, 2010

Acts of kindness prove to be heartwarming for lonely soldiers.

Every year young men and women training to be soldiers in the United States Army are given the opportunity to go home for Christmas. Unfortunately, not all personnel make it home during the “Christmas Exodus” for various reasons. Because most personnel on-post is away on leave, services are shut down and there is little activity. Furthermore, as trainees, the young soldiers may not leave post for any reason.

To help ease the pain, forty-three parishioners from Apostles Church in Columbia, South Carolina, participated in a Christmas service held at the Ft. Jackson Chapel. Soldiers from all across the across the country as well as Egypt, Guam, and Lebanon, experienced “Christ” in Christmas enjoying fellowship, food and prayer with Apostles’ members. A simple request for one person to assist with the worship service developed into a great opportunity to show the love of Christ. Parishioners of all ages volunteered as musicians and readers for the service while others brought Christmas goodies to share.

Parishioners share a Christmas meal and fellowship with soldiers who stay behind.

The worship service featured telling the Christmas story through Gospel readings, poetry and Christmas carols, concluding with Eucharist. Following the service, the soldiers were treated to a feast of homemade food provided by Apostles, and most importantly, soldiers were able to enjoy fellowship in the love of Christ.

Posted By: Cynthia P. Brust
Categories: Faith in Action