Dates & Seasons
“As a veteran and chaplain, I ask that on Defence Sunday people remember with thanks the sacrifice of those who served, suffered and died for us and their families; to commit to helping those wounded in body, mind and spirit; and, to pray for those who still serve in our name,” says Principal Chaplain, The Ven. Rob Sutherland CSC
Video
“The ethos of service to the nation and its people is paramount for Defence Force members. They surrender their individual rights for the national need, they go into harm’s way, and with the authority and responsibility to serve, support and protect this great nation and its interests…Chaplains of the Defence Force live among our sailors, soldiers and aviators sharing the dangers and hardships, the hopes of life and struggles, especially when it comes to death,” says The Right Rev’d Grant Dibden, Anglican Bishop to the Australian Defence Force, as he shares about Defence Sunday
“Geoffrey Studdert Kennedy was one of the new breed of Church of England chaplains that arose during World War I. The new chaplains spent time with the regular soldiers instead of officers and found themselves transformed by the harsh realities of war,” says The Very Rev’d Dr Peter Catt
“Most of the soldiers, sailors and aviators to whom we minister are not aware of Jesus’ comfort, so it is the role of the chaplain to bring that calm sense of assurance to the many and varied situations ADF personnel face,” says Air Force chaplain, The Rev’d Michelle Philp
“More than 3,000 Australian civilian nurses volunteered for active service during World War I. They were posted to Britain, France, Belgium, the Mediterranean, India and the Middle East. They nursed in hospitals, on hospital ships and trains, or in casualty clearing stations closer to the frontlines. Of these nurses, 25 never came home – Staff Nurse Norma Mowbray among them,” says former Archives Researcher, Adrian Gibb
“Veterans long for the love of family, friends, mates, communities and even our nation, but true healing only comes from the love of God…In the decades since I last went to war, I have worked with those wounded in body, mind and spirit. They long for thanks, respect and love. And, when our love is God’s love, it heals a multitude of invisible wounds,” says Archdeacon to the Australian Army, The Ven. Rob Sutherland in this Defence Sunday homily
Get some soul in your inbox
Thank you for subscribing
