MEMBers of the Barbados Defence Force (BDF) were yesterday told that prayer was a major piece of armour to always have with them – if they were to be good soldiers in Christ.Reverend Allan Jones, addressing the BDF’s 31st anniversary service at St Matthias Church, stressed that prayer was essential to their everyday lives, if they were going to be among the peacemakers of society.“There can be no soldier who does not pray,” Jones warned. He urged the BDF members to stand strong and carry their armour with them every day – not the military protection of guns and ammunition, but instead “proof, right thinking and right actions, and a shield of faith” – focusing on peace and avoiding conflicts.Jones told the soldiers that proof of themselves would set them free, while right thinking and actions would allow them to walk through many obstacles that they were bound to face.“The shield of faith is there to support and protect the heart of the soldier, and is the basis of what a soldier does, but prayer provides the need for solid spirituality, which is essential for service – non-violent service in God’s army,” the preacher said.Jones urged army members who were already Christians to let their light shine and not falter under pressure.“ . . . Pressure that is bound to come, not from fighting a war, but conforming to a pattern of behaviour which is not consistent with Christian principles. For many soldiers the fight is not on the battlefield, but in the barracks room: the fight to retain a Christian identity, the fight against ridicule and conforming to certain standards.” Jones reminded the soldiers that “the cross of Christ was far more powerful than a flag”.The service also saw prayers being offered up for the nation and the army; for protection from hurricanes; and for families. A special prayer was said for Prime Minister David Thompson and his family.Acting Prime Minister Freundel Stuart – before acting chief of staff Lieutenant Colonel Atheline Branch and the Acting Prime Minister’s aide-de-camp Captain Barry Marshall – afterwards took the salute in a march past as the soldiers made their way back to St Ann’s Fort at the Garrison. (CT)
