(Delivered November 11, 2026 at the Gloucester City-wide Veterans Day Observance)

Eternal God, Source of each and every blessing, We the People call You by many names and sing Your song in many keys.

We gather this morning before You, You who cannot be partitioned, in recognition and profound appreciation for the courageous individuals who serve and have served this nation, and for their equally courageous families, who have borne their service alongside them.

Together they answer when obligation whispers to them, and when it shouts.

Together they go where they are needed, specializing in temporary homes and adaptive life hacks.

Together they endure uncertainty, boredom, and, sometimes, dread.

Together they weave a sturdy fabric that clothes our nation in strength and security.

We are all—every one of us—indebted to them for their sacrifices.

May we be ever thoughtful of what we have, and strive through gratitude and good deeds to be worthy of our privileges.

On this Veterans Day, and every day, may our brave and generous service members know that their commitment matters deeply to our society.

May they and their families be showered with abundant blessing.

May the work of their lives bring our world more justice, more righteousness, and we dare to pray, more peace.

And together, let us say amen.