100th ARW Chapel hosts 2010 National Prayer Luncheon

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Thomas Trower
  • 100th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
RAF MILDENHALL, England --  All faiths were welcome to meet and rejoice at the annual RAF Mildenhall National Prayer Luncheon Feb. 12 at the 100th Air Refueling Wing Chapel.

Chap. (Brig. Gen.) David Cyr, Air Force deputy chief of chaplains, was the guest speaker for the military tradition that dates back to 1953 when National Prayer Day was established by President Harry Truman.

"It all began as a way for national leadership to pray on national focus items and decision making," said Chap. (Lt. Col.) Hodges Viccellio, 100th ARW chaplain. "The military has taken it down to the wing level."

After the singing of the British and American national anthems by Christina Reeves, Catholic music director, and an opening prayer from Chap. (Maj.) Patrick Beck, Catholic chaplain, scriptures were read from a variety of religions.

Senior Airman Elad Levy, 3rd Air Force, provided a Hebrew reading and Master Sgt. James San Agustin, 100th Logistics Readiness Squadron, contributed for the Catholic community.

"The luncheon isn't just for Christians. We hope for a full spectrum of religious participation," said Chaplain Viccellio. "Its truly interfaith. All groups, including: Christians, Jews, Muslims, Budhists, and Pagans are encouraged to join."

After the scriptures were read, Maj. James Lovewell, Protestant Advisory Council president, provided the prayer for the nations and Chaplain Cyr began to speak to the audience on the theme, "God, bless America."

"I always emphasize the comma in the phrase," said Chaplain Cyr. "I do this because it's a prayer."

The chaplain highlighted the history of prayer in America. He mentioned America's forefathers opening with prayer at their first meeting and prayer's continued use to open sessions in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate.

"It behooves us to remember how it is we got here today," said Chaplain Cyr. "God, bless America. It's written on our money, and it's written on our hearts."

"Our overall goal is to share the message of God and country and offer hope and encouragement to anyone in need," said Chaplain Viccellio.