JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- The Air Force chief of chaplains joined Joint Base MDL leaders as guest speaker at the 2018 National Prayer Luncheon at Tommy B’s Community Activities Center here, April 3.
Rooted in a tradition dating back to 1942 and now an international event, the luncheon presents an opportunity for people of all faiths to gather, recognize and appreciate their individual beliefs and to pray for national leaders.
“It’s nice to see that there is spiritual support available and so prevalent at my base,” said Airman 1st Class Alyssa Dossenback, 87th Medical Group pediatric medical technician. “Being surrounded in positivity is a good way to spend your day.”
During U.S. Air Force Chaplain (Maj. Gen.) Dondi E. Costins’ speech, he spoke about preparing oneself for obstacles that may occur during a lifetime.
“It happens when it happens,” said Costin. “The questions is: will you be ready when it happens? If you’re always ready - you never have to get ready.”
After attendees filled their plates, Costin and those gathered prayed together before breaking bread. During his invocation, Costin emphasized the importance of building a strong foundation for life.
“I appreciated that I could see him as a human and not just as a chaplain major general,” said Dossenback. “He was very personable and was joking with us - it wasn’t some speech, standing at a podium reading off cards.”
Costin said prayers can affect people in different ways. Each chaplain has their own unique approach when giving a prayer depending on the type of audience they are trying to reach.
Closing the event, Costin equated the motive of his speeches, prayers and the core of how the National Prayer Luncheon first began, to what he believes is the basis of faith.
“Faith works, if you work your faith,” said Costin.