by khurst2@gmail.com | Mar 4, 2023 | Chaplain, News
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.
Romans 12:2
Currently in the Christian faith, we are in a season known as Lent. Lent is historically a mourning period as we anticipate the death of Jesus. It begins 46 days prior to Easter on a Wednesday known as Ash Wednesday because during Biblical times wearing ashes was a sign of mourning. Ash Wednesday is preceded by Shrove Tuesday, which is known as Fat Tuesday or Mardi Gras. Mardi Gras represents the final party and indulgence of our flesh before we enter the mourning and self-denial period of Lent.
During Lent we are encouraged to fast and pray as we prepare for the death of Jesus. Christians are also encouraged to be more intentional in our studies and devotions. Lent ends on or around Easter, depending on your tradition. Most people give up certain foods, television, social media, or music. While others commit to reading the Bible faithfully or volunteering more during Lent.
While Lent may be a traditionally Christian observation, the principles of fasting and self-denial can be applied to anyone. We can all benefit from a period of abstaining from unhealthy habits, addictions, and distractions to focus and gain clarity on our life’s direction. During this time of Lent, I encourage all to stop and think about the things distracting us and use this period to refrain from them. Take the next 40 days to focus on an area that needs improvement and see how much you have changed by the end. The results will amaze you!
by khurst2@gmail.com | Mar 4, 2023 | News
DOWNLOAD SPONSOR PACKET
The Empowering Justice Charitable Foundation at Central Carolina Community Foundation will host its annual FOR THE LOVE OF JUSTICE MEMORIAL 5K Run/Walk and Kid’s Fun Run on Sunday, March 26, 2023, at 2 pm.
We run in memory of 1st LT Justice R. Stewart, a fallen United States Marine Corps officer who had a giving heart, a selfless soul, an infectious laugh, and a heartwarming smile. 1st LT Stewart was a daughter, a sister, a niece, a cousin, a friend, and a Marine. She was artistic, confident, and ambitious, setting goals years in advance. 1st LT Stewart tragically lost her life while she was on a run. We run for her. Every time our foot hits the pavement, it is symbolic of a heartbeat, bringing life into the memories that 1st LT Stewart left behind to share with the world.
Check out our 2022 Highlight Video – For the Love of Justice 5K
by khurst2@gmail.com | Feb 20, 2023 | Announcements, News
Congratulations to our NNOA Members on their nominations.
by khurst2@gmail.com | Feb 15, 2023 | News
The Medal of Honor (MoH) is the highest military decoration awarded by the United States government. Conferred only upon members of the United States Armed Forces who distinguish themselves through conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity, at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty. The Navy and Marine Corps Medal of Honor was established on December 21, 1861 and is the nation’s oldest continuously awarded decoration. The naval forces version of the MoH may be awarded to a member of the United States Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, (and to members of the Coast Guard when operating under the authority of the Department of the Navy).
3,525 Servicemen have been awarded the MoH. Of that, 93 are African American. The first U.S. Serviceman of African descent to be decorated was Sergeant William Harvey Carney, U.S. Army during the U.S. Civil War. And although 1050 Marines, Sailors and Coastguardsmen have been awarded the MoH, only 18 Sailors, 6 Marines and no Coastguardsmen of African descent have been awarded this distinction. Click on the MOH icon below to access the link to the 93 African American Naval MoH recipients.
In August 2021, the Secretary of Defense directed a review of all African American and Native Americans previously awarded the various Service Crosses, to ensure that all Americans received equitable treatment, and to determine if they possibly rated the Medal of Honor instead. Many valorous acts worthy of the two highest decorations, this nation can bestow upon its Servicemen, likely were not properly recognized and awarded, due to systemic racism.
https://www.cmohs.org/recipients/lists/black-african-american-recipients
by khurst2@gmail.com | Jan 30, 2023 | News
Important new pilot program all spouses need to be aware.
Military spouses of currently serving members of the U.S. Army, Marine Corps, Navy, Air Force and Space Force, to include active, reserve and National Guard components, are invited to apply to the new Military Spouse Career Accelerator Pilot, a competitive multi-year program that provides spouses with paid 12-week fellowships at employers across various industries and locations.
https://myseco.militaryonesource.mil/portal/events/live/mscap
