The Episcopal Church and the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America continue our united call to Pray, Fast, and Act in support of good policies and programs that provide opportunities for and respect the dignity of all people.
This month we focus on programs that assist veterans and their family members. New investments and policies in recent years have helped expand veteran access to education, labor opportunities, healthcare, and housing. Still, too many veterans, active service members and their families still struggle with complex challenges—ranging from barriers to benefits to increased mental health risks. We must continue to support those of us who risk everything for the safety and wellbeing of our communities.
Studies from the Department of Veterans Affairs have found that 22 veterans take their lives each day-- a rate 21 percent higher when compared to other civilian adults. Some factors, such as the on-going opioid epidemic, have also disproportionately impacted veterans, increasing demand for services among those seeking recovery and contribute to the many challenges impacting families. There is a great need to do more for veterans in our communities. Through chaplains, dioceses, and congregations across the country the Church plays a special role in welcoming returning veterans. Let us take action by asking Congress to protect programs that address the needs and equip veterans as they return from service.
On May 21, join the EPPN, ELCA Advocacy, and Presiding Bishops of the Episcopal Church and the ELCA as we #PrayFastAct.
Pray for those who have answered a vocation of military service and for their families; for the many military chaplains across the world who bear the witness of Christ in word and sacrament; for those who have lost their lives in service of our country and who are moved to harm themselves.
For Memorial Day
We give you thanks, O Lord, for all who have died that we may live, for all who endured pain that we might know joy, for all who made sacrifices that we might have plenty, for all who suffered imprisonment that we might know freedom. Turn our deep feeling now into determination, and our determination into deed, that as men and women died for peace, we may live for peace for the sake of the Prince of Peace, even Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen. (based upon a prayer by Leslie D. Weatherhead)
For those who serve
Almighty God, we commend to your gracious care and keeping all the men and women of our armed forces [and federal ministries] at home and abroad. Defend them day by day with your heavenly grace; strengthen them in their trials and temptations; give them courage to face the perils which beset them; and grant them a sense of your abiding presence wherever they may be; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Fast in remembrance of the sacrifices men and women in the armed forces make for our common good, and for their families who cope with daily challenges in the absence of their loved ones.
Act by urging our lawmakers to pursue innovative solutions and further address the challenges facing veterans.
Additional Resources:
- Learn about additional opportunities for congregations to assist veterans in your community at the faith-based office of the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs.
- Learn more about the Episcopal chaplaincy in VA hospital settings or in the military.
- For resources to support veterans in your region, please contact the Episcopal Veterans Fellowship (EVF).
- VA Resources for Clergy and Faith Communities
- VA National Center for PTSD Clergy Toolkit
- VA Office of Mental Health Services: Overview of substance use resources
- Reading our one-page information on veterans!
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