The Messina Family

The Messina Family
Barcelona 2010

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

Norwegian/NATO prayer service



Lily, Rich and I attended a prayer service that was hosted by the Norwegian military and the NATO Joint Warfare Centre, where Rich works. Hundreds of soldiers from countries all over Europe gathered in the Domkirke (Stavanger Cathedral) to pray for those soldiers in harm's way and those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice. It was a lovely service that was in both Norwegian and English. I got the opportunity to sing some beloved sacred Christmas carols in Norwegian with the congregation gathered. It was really quite moving. One thing I have learned living abroad is that Americans don't often see any situation but from their vantage point. Yes, the American military is out there en masse fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, there are troop contingencies from all over the world that are also fighting alongside the Americans. It was nice to honor all of these heroes!

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