“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.” 1 John 3:16
On the Night of February 15, 1898 there was a large explosion on the USS Maine. This U.S. Navy ship was anchored in the harbor of Havana, Cuba. The explosion led to the sinking of the USS Maine. 266 sailors lost their lives that terrible night. This event would become the final reason that the United States of America would go to war against Spain, who was currently occupying Cuba.
That night, on the deck of the burning Maine, Father John Chidwick, the chaplain assigned to the USS Maine, quickly acted to render aid and to try to save of the lives of his shipmates. He worked tirelessly to care for the wounded and minister to the dying. Even with his own life in danger, Chaplain Chidwick and other shipmates offered comfort and care to those on the ship who were affected by the explosion. He was one of the last sailors off the ship that night before it sank to the bottom of the harbor.
Even though Father John witnessed a terrible loss of life, and after seeing to the burial of his shipmates and offering all possible care to their families, Father John Chidwick continued to serve the Navy throughout the Spanish American War.
This story of one brave man who was willing to go out of his way to serve his country and his fellow servicemen is just one of millions of stories of those who have served in our armed forces. They have been willing to serve, offering their very lives when needed, for God, country and their fellow servicemen and women.
This coming Sunday, November 11 is Veterans Day. It is a day set aside for us to remember the brave service and sacrifice of those who have served in the armed forces. It is a wonderful chance for us to offer our gratitude to God and to those we know who have served. Their bravery is worthy of our gratefulness. And, while we are offering our gratitude to those have who have served our country, let us pray for those who are currently serving. On their behalf, let us pray for peace.
Rev. Keith King, Online Campus Pastor
