Message from the new MCF-A Patron - MAJGEN Sue Graham, CSC
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
I am humbled to have been asked to serve as MCF-A Patron and I look forward to working with the MCF Executive and Council over coming years to support MCF continuing its mission to promote the Christian faith in Defence. I am really enthusiastic about the initiatives and goals for MCF-A outlined within Towards 2025 and look forward to seeing MCF-A continue to evolve, particularly in fostering greater engagement with veterans and former Defence Organisation members, families and increased representation of women in leadership roles at all levels.
MCF has been a constant presence and encouragement to me throughout my military career. I joined the ADF in 1990 firstly, through Army Reserves before transferring to the full time Army in 1997. Particularly after joining the full time force, and moving away from the known security of my family home and circle of Christian friends, the fellowship and encouragement I received through lunchtime bible study groups and MCF monthly mail outs while serving overseas have been hugely important to me. The encouragement or promptings from MCF fellowship and timely reminders of God’s truth have always been the right nudge at the right time.
The Christmas season has come far too quickly this year for me and I suspect many of you will feel the same. My hope is that in the rush that seems now synonymous with December that you may still find the quiet moment to reflect on the wonder of the Christmas story – God’s presence on earth through His only Son. I am conscious that for some you may be required to serve away from family and friends over this time or Christmas may be a period of difficulty due to loss or disharmony. At these times of being far away from the familiar or in tough circumstances, I have always found Romans 15:13 my go to verse: May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace, as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.
May you all be filled with all joy and peace as you trust in Him and I look forward to continuing the important work of MCF with you in 2023.
MAJGEN Sue Graham, CSC – taken from the Dec/Jan MCF eNews.
others in the ADF and the wider Christian community. Please consider how you can support us through prayer, finances and getting involved in the MCF community.