cktimes.ca Archives for The Pastoral Lens
The Pastoral Lens
Not Just November to Remember
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
I received a call recently from Rob Simpson, a Canadian Army veteran who served in Cypress on peacekeeping duty in the 1970's. Rob was calling me on behalf of Branch 18 Royal Canadian Legion to participate in the flag raising ceremony for Legion Week. A ceremony was planned for 11:00am at the civic centre in Wallaceburg on September 17.When I arrived for the ceremony, I was quite surprised to see so many there. Besides a fair number of Legion members, there was also the MP, the MPP, the mayor and Ward 5 councillors, as well as a few people from the community. I think a lot of people have the impression that November is the only month we focus on veterans and their contribution to our country. However, Legion Week is an opportunity in September to draw attention to what our local Royal Canadian Legion branches do in communities across Canada. With the war going on in Afghanistan and Canadian troops stationed over there and elsewhere, more than ever we need to be aware of the sacrifice many Canadians are making to keep the peace. Regardless of your stance on Canada's involvement in the war, we do need to support our troops.
The ceremony was simple but meaningful. After the singing of our national anthem, the Legion flag was raised, coming alongside the Canadian and Ontario flags. I was called upon to lead in an opening prayer, after which several short remarks were given by the various dignitaries present. I have never served our country in the military, nor have I lived at a time when our country was directly at war. However, I am proud to be an associate member of the Royal Canadian Legion because I know it is a body that represents many who actually did serve our country. My father served our country with the Royal Canadian Air Force and it is with great honour that I stay connected with the Legion.
The Bible is full of references to war and the sacrifices associated with it. God's people often cried out to the Lord to go out with their armies against the enemy. Many of Israel's leaders were soldiers, including Joshua, Saul, and David. War was just a part of life in Bible times, and unfortunately, the same is true today. Organizations like the Legion allow us the opportunity to support those at war while we cry out to the Lord for peace. I encourage you to check out your local Legion this week during Legion Week to see what's going on and maybe even find out how you may play a part to help out a veteran.
