Chief of chaplains speaks at prayer breakfast

By Julie M LucasFebruary 17, 2015

Chief of chaplains speaks at prayer breakfast
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Chief of chaplains speaks at prayer breakfast
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Chief of chaplains speaks at prayer breakfast
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VICENZA, Italy -- The verse from Deuteronomy was repeated as a theme during the Vicenza Military Community Prayer Breakfast, Feb. 6. Number 31:8 said, "The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

U.S. Army Garrison Vicenza Deputy Commander Wes Leisinger gave the welcome and spoke about prayer being like breathing.

"Make time for your office call with God," Leisinger said. A breakfast meal prepared by the South of the Alps dining facility, prayers followed for military, nation and world.

"For our Armed Forces, we pray that nothing will take them by surprise and their leaders will have insight," said Capt. Kris Toman, commander, A Company, Brigade Support Battalion, 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne).

U.S. Army Chief of Chaplains Maj. Gen. Donald L. Rutherford spoke for the second year in a row at the breakfast. He was introduced by Chap. (Col.) Charles Reynolds who said Rutherford ministers as if he were a battalion chaplain.

"It's always great getting out of Washington. When I worked for EUCOM, Vicenza was always one of my favorite places to come visit," Rutherford said.

Rutherford's speech had a slideshow with photos from his office that he tied together. One of the pictures showed an airborne Soldier he called the "Panicked Paratrooper" and spoke about trusting noncommissioned officers. He also showed a photo of unit coins from the 18th Airborne Corps and encouraged leaders to "advocate and know your troops by developing relationships."

Rutherford spoke about that he would be soon retiring and preparing for transition following 35 years of Army service. "The Army shaped my identity but I'm not defined by it."

President Dwight D. Eisenhower started the first prayer breakfast in 1953 and every president has continued the tradition.

Related Links:

Vicenza Military Community facebook page

Vicenza Military Community website

Additional photos