Sunday, April 18th saw a very different morning worship service at Sicamous Bible Church. The skirl of bagpipes filled the sanctuary at 10:30 as many of the uniformed services of the community marched in to seat themselves in the front rows of the church. Before the group came in, Mayor Malcolm MacLeod and his wife Debbie had taken their place along with several nurses in the uniforms that formerly distinguished their profession.
Over several months, Pastor Laurie Hudson had visited the work centers of the RCMP, Ambulance, Firefighters, Rescue, and Health Services, and also the Royal Canadian Legion to invite them to attend. He began the morning service by thanking them for the sacrifice and devotion to us whom they serve. Mayor MacLeod later added the District council's appreciation for the sense of security we all enjoy in our community and nation through the roles they fulfill. Pastor Hudson read a scripture that focused on those called to give themselves as they are doing.
Military uniforms of the Royal Canadian Navy and the Rocky Mountain Ranger Cadet Corps were seated with Legion veterans and Ladies Auxiliary. The first of three prayers of blessing was offered for this group and for the RCMP - who over their history have served Canada as soldiers as well as police forces.
Following the singing of a hymn, another prayer of thanksgiving and blessing focused on our Firefighters, Highway & Air Rescue, and First-Responders. The Community Choir provided two moving songs to lead into a final prayer for Nurses, Home & Community Health Care workers, and Ambulance crews, some of whom demonstrated their vital place by being called away to their duties moments later.
The congregational singing of that many uniformed people, visitors and the regular attendees richly filled the sanctuary of the Church.
Piper Jim Wright played Amazing Grace and Heather Minh sang 'Jerusalem' - both very excellent lead-ins to RCMP Staff Sergeant Jacque Olsen, Detachment Commander in Revelstoke, sharing her story of a life journey to faith in Jesus Christ.
After a pleasant luncheon uniformed guests surrounded Mayor MacLeod and Staff Sergeant Olsen in her scarlets for a group photo. Many who attended commented on receiving encouragement to continue praying for these vital services in our community.
