Ideas that Work
October 1, 1995
HONORING VETERANS
Early in a new pastorate I met two Army veterans in their early 70's attending our church. They understated their war experience, as did their wives, who endured the war working and waiting at home. But I felt an urgency to honor them and other veterans in the church. Veterans Day was coming up, a natural time to show appreciation.
Six weeks before the holiday, I asked each veteran in the congregation to submit a brief history of his or her military service in preparation for a special service on Veterans Day Sunday. The information dribbled in, turning up 13 veterans in a congregation of 130.
On Veterans Day, we sang patriotic hymns and then at sermon time, I read from Romans 13:7, emphasizing the phrase, "Give everyone what you owe him … if honor, then honor." Then I said, "Today we will not merely consider God's Word, we will do it." I called on each veteran to stand while I read his brief history. Then I repeated his name and said, "We honor you today."
The congregation burst into applause for each vet-eran. It was one of the most moving services I have ever conducted.
Following the service, we continued the celebration at a potluck dinner, and we posted each vet's service record. The celebration helped many discover common ground and new friendships.
The wife of one World War II veteran told me, "My husband attended church all of his life. He told me you're the first minister who said anything appreciative about his military service."
--Jay Dudley
Northridge Church of God
Fair Oaks, California
WELCOMING VISITORS
Twelve Corners Baptist Church in Noble, Oklahoma, has found a better way to welcome visitors: personal letters from kids. Copies of visitor registration cards are passed out at Sunday evening worship ...
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