Dear
Soldier
Maj. Ron Cohen (son of Jules & Elizabeth
Cohen) is serving again in Iraq, stationed in at Ballad for 17 months.
Ron says
there are many soldiers who get little or no mail at all. If anyone would
like to write a letter to "Dear Soldier" with encouragement
or just something chatty, or send a card, he will see to it they
are distributed. You can sign your name or just as "a member
of Trinity Lutheran Church, Orlando." It will be especially
nice if any cards are sent during the holidays. Kids, this would
be a great time to show off your artist talents, draw a picture
or make a card to send to them.
If anybody remembers Ron personally and wants to send him a letter, he'd like
that, too! Ron is a graduate from Trinity Lutheran School.
Please bring
those cards, letters and notes to the Church Office, School Office
or the box provided in the Church narthex.
Christmas In Iraq
I
am not the best Christian and know I have many faults and have
to ask for forgiveness every
day. This Christmas Eve, I was humbled
once again by a sermon from the Chaplain. His’ words made me
ponder my feelings and thoughts and made me look deep inside my soul.
We sang the usual songs and the sermon was somewhat rough around
the edges, but the message was received.
Although doing a 15-month-tour in this land that is found throughout
scripture, prior to the sermon I had not felt the usual feelings
of excitement for Christmas. As I sat there listening, I realized
I was not exposed to the commercialization of Christmas in Iraq,
nor was I experiencing the closeness of family and friends; but I
knew I was not alone in spirit. I realized that I may not have all
the lights, long lines, or family near me but I knew that many were
thinking of me.
My thoughts continued to flash before me, as I walked back to my
room, of all the things I have to be grateful for and that many people
are still in touch with the meaning of Christmas. From family, friends,
the parishioners of Trinity Lutheran Church, and friends of the family,
I have received more than 100 cards and treats for not just me but
the soldiers with me. The thoughts, prayers, and gifts would do much
for the spirits of those deployed. I have handed out the 100 plus
cards, food, and candy that came from the many care packets I received
to soldiers who perked up when I would walk in a room with my red
hat on my head. Watching the soldiers’ faces was like watching
a bunch of first graders being treated to ice-cream. For many soldiers,
this was the only gift or letter they would receive this year. For
me, handing out the cards and treats was a gift in itself.
In the solitude of my room and as Silent Night plays on my computers,
I feel peace. I feel as if my family and friends are surrounding
me and the love and joy of Christmas runs through my veins. The gift
of Christmas is not under a tree but it rests in the hearts of all
those who believe. Christmas is about family and friendship brought
together for the celebration of the birth of our Lord. I have received
the best gift of all this year and that is knowing the meaning of
Christmas.
To the Congregation of Trinity, Merry Christmas and a
Happy New Year! Thank you for everything you have sent us and keeping
us in your prayers. God bless and have a wonderful Christmas with
God in your hearts. Major Ron Cohen, stationed in Iraq
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Worship
Opportunities:
Saturday
Worship Schedule:
5:00
pm -- Bible Study
6:00 pm -- Worship
Sunday
Worship Schedule:
8:00
am -- Worship9:30 am -- Jazz/Praise Worship
9:30
am -- Sunday School & Adult Bible
Classes
11:00 am -- Worship
Wednesday:
the
Way
(Seasonal)
Welcome
to Trinity on-line! We're glad you are visiting our site.
Interested
in worshiping with us? We
offer several weekly services, as well as, Bible
study opportunities for adults and Sunday
School for children.
Trinity
has ministries for children, Middle
School and High School youth,
and adults.
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