FORT RUCKER, Ala. (Feb. 23, 2012) -- The world is a noisy place that distracts people. Prayer is a powerful resource that turns people to and tunes them toward the things of God.
Thus was the overarching message from retired Army Chaplain (Col.) Clarke L. McGriff at the Feb. 16 early morning Fort Rucker National Prayer Breakfast at The Landing.
Citing the words of Psalm 46, McGriff reminded the congregation of more than 360 that "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in (times of) trouble."
Blessing our Soldiers and Families with his constant love, McGriff said, God is constantly available to bless those who encounter the wars raging against homes, Families and even the workplace. "We only need to take courage and call on Him as a refuge from the constant noise and distractions of the world.
"God is with us today, and we need not fear," McGriff said.
In addition to McGriff, the prayer breakfast program included opening remarks by Col. James A. Muskopf, garrison commander; scripture reading by Rabbi Lynne Goldsmith from Dothan; scripture reading and special prayers by Chaplains (Lt. Col.) Milton Johnson, (Capt.) Paul Cartmill, (Capt.) Tim Gresham and (Col.) Dennis Newton; praise music from the PB&J Band; and prelude music by the 98th Army Band Piano-Sax duo.
Following McGriff's comments, Maj. Gen. Anthony G. Crutchfield, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker commanding general, expressed his gratitude for program participants, the chaplains' office, attendees, and Soldiers and Families.
Muskopf's welcoming remarks traced the history of the National Prayer Breakfast, which began in 1953 after members of House and Senate prayer groups approached President Dwight D. Eisenhower about the idea. Eisenhower said that the "gathering was to formally seek divine guidance for the national leadership and to proclaim their dependence on and faith in God." The original name of President's Prayer Breakfast was changed in 1970.
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