New resource released to guide ministry with veterans

In preparation for the observance in the U.S. of Veteran’s Day on November 11, United Methodist Communications has released as a part of their RETHINK CHURCH initiative a new resource for congregations and church leaders. Titled Welcome Home, Veteran: My son, my daughter, this web based resource helps local churches think about how to be in ministry with veterans, and include an observance of Veteran’s Day in the context of worship. While the United Methodist Social Principles declare that “…war is incompatible with the teachings and example of Christ…” (¶165c of the 2012 UM Book of Discipline), they also declare that God’s love is open to all and that military personnel are to be respected. Resolution #5061 in the 2012 UM Book of Resolutions calls the church to be actively engaged in support and prayer for men and women in the armed services, and calls churches to “…extend a welcome home to persons who return from service in the armed forces.” Welcome Home, Veteran: My son, my daughter attempts to help churches think through their ministry to and with veterans through the observance of Veteran’s Day, either in the Sunday morning worship service or through an off-site commemoration service. It includes a downloadable packet of worship resources, free downloadable graphics for church use, links to support ministries for veterans, and videos about veterans ministries. The Welcome Home, Veteran: My son, my daughter resource is available at http://www.umcom.org/site/c.mrLZJ9PFKmG/b.8826327/k.D6F/Welcome_Home_Veteran_My_Son_My_Daughter.htm

Jay Voorhees

The Rev. Jay Voorhees is the Executive Editor of The United Methodist Reporter and the Chief Creative Officer for CircuitWriter Media LLC which operates this site and MethoBlog.com. Jay is an ordained elder in the Tennessee Annual Conference. Jay has written on life and the practice of faith in The United Methodist Church at Only Wonder Understands since 2003.

The United Methodist Reporter wants to encourage lively conversation about The United Methodist Church and our articles in the belief that Christian conversation (what Wesley would call conferencing) is a means of grace. While we support passionate debate, we cannot allow language that demeans or demonizes others, and we reserve the right to delete any comment we believe to be harmful or inappropriate. We encourage all to remember that we are all broken and in need of Christ's grace, and that we all see through the glass darkly until that time we when reach full perfection in love. May your speech here be tempered with love, and reflection of the fruits of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. After all, "There is no law against things like this." (Galatians 5:22-23)