Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
I hope and pray that you are well. I usually try to finish my e-messenger letter before noon so we can meet the 2 PM send-off deadline. Currently, it's 1:03 PM, and I am just now sitting down to write. The reason for my tardiness is that Caitlyn and I have just returned from laying Jackie Heckel to rest at Fort Jackson National Cemetery. It was beautiful, not just the service, but Fort Jackson. As I watched the flags blow in the wind and looked at the long lines of headstones, some resting in the shadow of trees whose leaves are filled with fall's colors, I found myself filled with gratitude for all veterans and our amazing country. It's hard not to feel patriotic when surrounded by such solemn beauty. To those who have served, thank you!
Our church, St. Martin's, is of course named for the patron saint of soldiers. Martin saw combat in Gaul, where he was decorated. He rose in rank and eventually became a part of the emperor's guard. We all know the story of Martin and his cloak, so I won't retell it. Instead, I want to share what I find most interesting about Martin's life. After the service, Martin became a monk and a pacifist. He had, as a cavalry officer, fought and seen his share of death, dying, and killing. He was done with that part of his life. Instead, he devoted himself to the causes of faith and peace.
During this time, the Councils of Nicaea (the Nicaean Creed) were happening. As the faith grew, it became increasingly important to put pen to paper and truly write out our beliefs. As this happened, some doctrines were first labeled false and later heresy. Those who preached this false doctrine were thus labeled heretics. Martin, along with people like Nicolas of Mira (Santa Claus), led the pushback against many of the heresies of the time. That said, when Nicolas and others wanted the heretics arrested and killed, Martin firmly rejected them and stood in their way. Martin lived by Jesus ' commands to love your neighbor and your enemy.
I have loved learning about Martin, his life and his legacy. It's fitting that his feast day coincides with Veterans Day. As I think about the many, many services I have done at national cemeteries across our country, and the solemn beauty of each place, I truly give thanks. I am proud to be an American. I am also proud to be the Rector of St. Martin's, and in his name, I have adopted a new rule in my life. Whenever I leave a cemetery, I say a prayer for peace. "Peace on Earth and goodwill to all" is more than a holiday sentiment. It is Christian doctrine, inked by folks like Martin, who knew violence and thus longed for peace. May we pray for that peace now and always.
Peace,
Mitch