Upcoming breakfast promotes day of prayer

By Nancy Rasmussen, Public Affairs SpecialistFebruary 3, 2011

FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Military and civilian personnel, their Families and the surrounding communities are invited to attend Fort Rucker's National Prayer Breakfast beginning at 6:30 a.m. Feb. 10 at The Landing,

"Each year we take this opportunity to gather and pray for the good of our nation, our Army and Army Aviation," said Garrison Chaplain (Col.) Dennis Newton, whose office conducts the event.

"This annual observance is an occasion of significant history for the installation, which has included speakers with regional and national reputations," said event planner Chaplain (Maj.) Vance Freeman.

This year's NPB guest speaker is Donny D. Thrasher, a retired former Fort Rucker garrison chaplain who currently serves as pastor of The Grace Place (formerly Salem Baptist Church) in Enterprise.

Thrasher's religious philosophy extends across denominational Christian lines, and he encourages his parishioners to "experience God, not religion."

"We believe all Christians should try to be an example of God's love; that by obedience to the Bible and yielding to God's Spirit, every believer can reflect Jesus' love," Thrasher said.

Breakfast attendees will also have the opportunity to welcome Newton as the new garrison chaplain. Newton replaced Chaplain (Col.) Stephen Cook, who retired in January.

"I look forward to meeting our Soldiers, Family members and other members of our Wiregrass communities as we gather to pray with gratitude for our nation and our Army," Newton said.

"Being a chaplain is more than simply providing an opportunity to worship, it is caring for the spiritual and welfare needs of our servicemembers and their Families, as well as the post civilian population.

"I hope everyone will feel welcome to join us in praying for our nation," Newton said.

The event is open to the public. Tickets can be obtained from unit representatives, unit chaplains or the Garrison Chaplain Office Bldg. 8945. A suggested donation of $6 is requested. For more information, call 255-2989 or 255-2012.