Archive for Prayer
Chaplain Gunhus’ Health Update
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Chaplain Gunhus speaking to MCA and Veterans Affairs chaplain leaders about mentoring new chaplains
Last May, Chaplain Gunhus circulated an update to a vast network of prayer intercessors. The link below connects with that letter as published in the MCA’s Fall 2010 issue of The Military Chaplain.
At present, Chaplain Gunhus is particularly active with the Guideposts ministry to the military. He continues to mentor countless military chaplains as well as civilian clergy at all stages of their careers. Chaplain Gunhus is a Life Member of the MCA, former National Executive Committee member, and ongoing consultant on strategic ministry.
We join Chaplain Gunhus and his family in thanksgiving to our merciful and faithful God for the healing care provided throughout many challenging months since November 2008.
Chaplain Gunhus’ Fourth Update – 22 May 2010
Looking for Armed Service Members & Veterans
Posted by: | CommentsThe Welcome Home Initiative is looking for members of the Armed Services and Veterans.
Not to give more service – but rather to receive prayerful and practical ministry.
The Episcopal Diocese of Albany, NY sponsors a special retreat for military Veterans – whether active, prior service, or retired – called the Welcome Home Initiative (WHI). This retreat is an exceptional opportunity to relax, reflect, renew, and restore. The Retreat Team provides support, prayer, and other resources to help military members and Veterans deal with primary or secondary combat and operational stress, traumatic brain injury (TBI), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), as well as poly-trauma, moral, and other war injuries. The WHI also reaches out to spouses and individual family members.
All retreat activities are conducted in an environment of nurture and careful consideration for confidential needs. The Reverend Nigel Mumford, a combat Veteran and contemporary leader in healing ministries, is the overall Retreat Director. Father Nigel is joined by a team of individuals who have combat experience or otherwise hold significant understanding of and appreciation for the unique strains and consequences of military life and war. The retreat takes place in a clearly Christian facility and context. However, Retreat Teams do not pressure WHI participants to adopt the religious views of the facility or their Team.
A closing ceremony for the WHI Retreat. Army Captain Eric Chen relates his experience of trauma while serving in Iraq and healing received during the retreat.
The retreat occurs over a three day period. Participants do not pay for lodging, food, snacks, or retreat materials. They are gifts! Simply register and then travel to Christ the King Spiritual Life Center in Greenwich, NY. [About 35 miles from Albany]
The next WHI Retreat is scheduled for 8-10 November 2010. Discover more information by visiting www.CtKcenter.org/WelcomeHome or calling (518) 692-9550 to request a brochure. For registration, please contact Sandra at (518) 692-9550 extension 202.
As a Navy Veteran, the Military Chaplains Association Executive Director attended a retreat in Greenwich last January. MCA members from various military backgrounds serve on WHI Retreat Teams. All of us strongly encourage your consideration of this unique invitation – whether you are a Warrior, a family member, or a chaplain.
Please note! A brand new WHI – West retreat opportunity will occur in Colorado Springs, CO from 27- 29 September 2010. As of 16 September, participant spaces are still available. Call Chaplain Mike Williams at (719) 649-8764 or email to revmwilliams777@aol.com.
“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” Policy vote next week
Posted by: | CommentsA United States Senate vote on major defense budget legislation next week will deal with bill language that seeks to repeal the “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” (DADT) policy. The legislation is the huge and complex Fiscal Year 2011 Defense Authorization Bill.
MCA members nationwide hold numerous points of view on the DADT policy and any potential change. Across those diverse perspectives we see a common and insistent thread. We are deeply concerned about the welfare of all Troops, their officers, and their chaplains.
Should the government choose to repeal the DADT policy, we strongly urge military leaders to safeguard an environment of accuracy, fairness, and justice. We urge this for all parties affected – whether they favor or do not favor the policy change.
Please pray fervently for the wisdom of our legislators. Please let your Senator and Representative know your position on this issue.
Respectfully yours / Chaplain Michael L. McCoy, Sr., MCA National President.