God's glory abounds at Camp Victory

Photo By Sgt. Eric Glassey | Col. Pat Hash, command chaplain, Multi-National Corps - Iraq give the sermon at the Easter Sunrise Service at Al Faw Palace on March 23.  

IRAQ

03.26.2008

Story by Spc. Eric Glassey 

13th Public Affairs Detachment

By Pfc. Eric J. Glassey
13th Public Affairs Detachment, Multi-National Corps - Iraq

The sun rose behind the podium as hymns rose in the air. Christians of all dominations gathered at the temporary chapel at Al Faw Palace, Camp Victory, to celebrate the wonder of Easter.

"It is one of the premier worship services of the year," said Army Maj. Lane Stockeland, officer in charge, Victory Chapel. "Traditionally, it is a milestone for believers, and probably one of the most important and significant worship services of the year."

Chaplain Col. Pat Hash, command chaplain, Multi-National Corps-Iraq gave the morning's sermon.

Although the Sunrise Service was for all denominations, special care was taken by the chaplaincy to ensure that all believers specific needs were catered to throughout the week.

"This whole week we have special services for each religion," Hash said. "We make sure these services are provided for them."

The Sunrise Service was a taste of home for some Christians, Stockeland said. The service in front of the palace was very similar to the Easter Sunrise Services held in cities all across America where people gather to greet the morning by giving praise to Jesus Christ, Stockleland explained.

"No matter where you are in the world, as a Christian you can celebrate Easter and especially Easter sunrise."

The service also had another meaning to some. Holding a religious service in an area that once had no religious freedom is a milestone, Stockeland said. "I think it's pretty significant to hold Easter sunrise in an area where folks didn't have the freedom to do so."

• Date Taken: 03.26.2008
• Date Posted: 03.26.2008 10:03
• Story ID: 17759
• Location: IQ