Two Holidays--and a brief reflection on war and peace

by the Rev. Dr. William Chris Hobgood, President of the DISCIPLES CENTER for PUBLIC WITNESS and former General Minister and President of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

This Sunday is bracketed by two holidays, one in the U.S. and the other in Canada. Although not officially celebrated as a federal holiday, Saturday was Armed Forces Day in the United States. It's a day set aside for showing gratitude and appreciation for all the women and men in uniform who work so hard to keep our nation strong and free. This includes our many chaplains who bravely, compassionately and intelligently minister to those serving in the different branches of the military. . . .

Tomorrow (Monday), our Canadian sisters and brothers will be celebrating Victoria Day, a holiday named after the English monarch who reigned over history's largest worldwide empire at its zenith. Although it is now the official day on which Canadians celebrate the birthday of the current Queen, the name nevertheless reminds us of Empire and the dangers and injustices that accompany this approach to other nations. . . .

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