ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, Md. - Members of the Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance community gathered for faith and fellowship during the C4ISR Prayer Luncheon Aug. 21.
The guest speaker, the U.S. Army Test and Evaluation Command Chaplain (Col.) David Hillis, focused on how to remain resilient during difficult times, like furloughs and sequestration. Hillis said people will find hope and strength if they turn their troubles to God.
Hillis said the Army has seen great changes through the years. Deployments, demanding workloads and budgetary cutbacks have put strain on Soldiers, the civilian workforce and their Families. Hillis said during difficult times he turns to Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things with Christ who strengthens me."
"We place a lot of emphasis on taking care of the body and the mind, but what about our soul?" Hillis said. "What do we do to maintain that part of us that we cannot necessarily see but we can certainly feel?"
Hillis said in addition to physical courage we need a "soul of courage" in order to prosper, which is strengthened by something beyond ourselves.
"Faith brings us courage when we don't think we can go on anymore," he said.
"Faith prepares the soul for the unexpected."
Hillis concluded by saying we need to put our trust in God no matter what happens.
"We need to believe that God has a plan, even though we might not understand it," he said.
Hillis added that faith is also about service.
"When we reach out to others in need, I believe the Lord strengthens us as well," he said.
The Deputy to the Commanding General Gary Martin thanked Hillis for his words, noting that prayer luncheons refresh and rebuild the community.
The program included musical performances by Emmanuel Kim and the C4ISR Strings & Brass Band and prayers and scripture readings by employees from the U.S. Army Communications and Electronics-Command and ATEC. Distinguished guests included APG and CECOM Commander Maj. Gen. Robert Ferrell, APG and CECOM Command Sgt. Maj. Kennis Dent, the CECOM Chief of Staff Col. Charles Gibson, Garrison Commander Col. Gregory McClinton and Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. James Ervin.
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