Brainerd VFW Post Chaplain
|
|
Air Force Chaplain Rios
|
Brainerd VFW Chaplain Rios
|
Eusebia (Ay'-You-Say-Bee-Yah) Rios served 33 years in the U.S. Air Force, retiring as a Major. Her overseas service included Afghanistan and Iraq. Also known as the "Happy Chappy." She is the Cuyuna Regional Medical Center Hospital Palliative Oncology Chaplain in Crosby, Disabled American Veterans State Chaplain and a volunteer at BrainCore of Northern Minnesota, located in Brainerd. Rios is also the Minnesota Disabled American Veterans State Chaplain.
Join Chappy on the third Saturday of each month for Veteran's Coffee. Her goal is to walk with you as a veteran.
She is a multi-talented lady as seen by photos from her time in service below:
Join Chappy on the third Saturday of each month for Veteran's Coffee. Her goal is to walk with you as a veteran.
She is a multi-talented lady as seen by photos from her time in service below:
Thank you, brothers and sisters, for your service. Thank you for your continued support. Know that I am here if you need to talk, need help, need prayer, or need a fellow Veteran. Chaplain Rios. [email protected] 651-333-0514
Chappy brings the word of God to all faiths at the Brainerd VFW. Ch Rev Eusebia Rios, "God's Vision, Our Mission." AMEN Col 4:6 [email protected] 651-333-0514
"We are not responsible for the circumstances we are in, but we are responsible for the way we allow those circumstances to affect us; we can either allow them to get on top of us or we can allow them to transform us into what God wants us to be." - Oswald Chambers
Seek what is good, be what is kind and give thanks for the blessings that surround your life and family. Amen!
Quote: "Unity is the strength that turns burdens into blessings, storms into victories, and strangers into family. Together we stand stronger than any challenge, because hearts joined in purpose can accomplish what no one can achieve alone."
|
Chaplain Rios
September 2026 Prayer: |
Let us pray.
Glorious Creator, we gather in solemn remembrance of September 11, 2001. We remember the towers struck, the Pentagon shaken, and a quiet field in Pennsylvania transformed into a place of extraordinary courage. We honor the innocent lives lost, the first responders who ran toward danger, and the heroes who gave their lives to save others.
We remember a day when the world wept with us, when flags flew across our nation, and when Americans stood united in grief and resolve. We remember that freedom is not free, and we honor the generations who have borne the cost of defending it.
Lord, heal the wounds that remain and comfort the families who still carry the weight of that day. Grant us the courage to confront evil without surrendering to hatred, the grace to forgive one another, and the wisdom to pursue justice grounded in our Constitution and in Your truth.
Remind us that we are stronger united. May the rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness be protected for all, not merely a few. May our nation’s tapestry be strengthened by compassion, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to freedom.
Teach us to love our neighbors as ourselves, to choose unity over division, and to preserve the hope that hatred sought to destroy. May we never forget the lives lost, the sacrifices made, or the responsibility we share to build a more just and peaceful world.
In Your holy name we pray. Amen.
Glorious Creator, we gather in solemn remembrance of September 11, 2001. We remember the towers struck, the Pentagon shaken, and a quiet field in Pennsylvania transformed into a place of extraordinary courage. We honor the innocent lives lost, the first responders who ran toward danger, and the heroes who gave their lives to save others.
We remember a day when the world wept with us, when flags flew across our nation, and when Americans stood united in grief and resolve. We remember that freedom is not free, and we honor the generations who have borne the cost of defending it.
Lord, heal the wounds that remain and comfort the families who still carry the weight of that day. Grant us the courage to confront evil without surrendering to hatred, the grace to forgive one another, and the wisdom to pursue justice grounded in our Constitution and in Your truth.
Remind us that we are stronger united. May the rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness be protected for all, not merely a few. May our nation’s tapestry be strengthened by compassion, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to freedom.
Teach us to love our neighbors as ourselves, to choose unity over division, and to preserve the hope that hatred sought to destroy. May we never forget the lives lost, the sacrifices made, or the responsibility we share to build a more just and peaceful world.
In Your holy name we pray. Amen.
|
Chaplain Rios
August 2026 Prayer: |
Glorious Creator,
As we look toward the end of summer, may we pause and behold the blessings of family and friends. Let us savor the moments and memories of laughter, fellowship, and wholehearted love. May we leave nothing important unspoken and never assume that tomorrow is promised. Today, we especially lift up our veterans—those who answered the call to serve, those who carried the weight of responsibility, and those who sacrificed time with their families so that others might experience freedom and peace. Lord, we remember those who served and never returned home. We remember those who returned carrying wounds that cannot always be seen. We remember the families who waited, worried, sacrificed, and sometimes received the knock on the door that changed their lives forever. Give our veterans strength for today and hope for tomorrow. Remind them that their service mattered, their sacrifices were not forgotten, and their lives continue to have purpose. For those who feel alone, bring companionship. For those who carry grief, bring comfort. For those who struggle to find their way, provide guidance. For those who are weary, renew their strength. And for those who have lost loved ones, surround them with people who will listen, care, and walk beside them. Help each of us to do more than thank a veteran with words. Teach us to show our gratitude through compassion, friendship, service, and action. And Lord, as this summer comes to a close, remind us to cherish the people You have placed in our lives. Give us the courage to make the phone call, share the embrace, speak the words “I love you,” and offer forgiveness when it is needed. May we never leave love unspoken or gratitude unexpressed. Bless our veterans. Bless their families. Bless those who continue to serve. And bless the nation they have sacrificed so much to protect. May we carry forward the values of courage, duty, sacrifice, compassion, and love—not only in our words, but in the way we live each day. Glorious Creator, we thank You for those who have served, those who serve today, and those who gave everything. May we honor their sacrifice by living lives worthy of the freedoms they defended. In Your holy name,
Amen. Chaplain Rios
As we look toward the end of summer, may we pause and behold the blessings of family and friends. Let us savor the moments and memories of laughter, fellowship, and wholehearted love. May we leave nothing important unspoken and never assume that tomorrow is promised. Today, we especially lift up our veterans—those who answered the call to serve, those who carried the weight of responsibility, and those who sacrificed time with their families so that others might experience freedom and peace. Lord, we remember those who served and never returned home. We remember those who returned carrying wounds that cannot always be seen. We remember the families who waited, worried, sacrificed, and sometimes received the knock on the door that changed their lives forever. Give our veterans strength for today and hope for tomorrow. Remind them that their service mattered, their sacrifices were not forgotten, and their lives continue to have purpose. For those who feel alone, bring companionship. For those who carry grief, bring comfort. For those who struggle to find their way, provide guidance. For those who are weary, renew their strength. And for those who have lost loved ones, surround them with people who will listen, care, and walk beside them. Help each of us to do more than thank a veteran with words. Teach us to show our gratitude through compassion, friendship, service, and action. And Lord, as this summer comes to a close, remind us to cherish the people You have placed in our lives. Give us the courage to make the phone call, share the embrace, speak the words “I love you,” and offer forgiveness when it is needed. May we never leave love unspoken or gratitude unexpressed. Bless our veterans. Bless their families. Bless those who continue to serve. And bless the nation they have sacrificed so much to protect. May we carry forward the values of courage, duty, sacrifice, compassion, and love—not only in our words, but in the way we live each day. Glorious Creator, we thank You for those who have served, those who serve today, and those who gave everything. May we honor their sacrifice by living lives worthy of the freedoms they defended. In Your holy name,
Amen. Chaplain Rios
|
Chaplain Rios
July 2026 Prayer: |
Glorious Creator, We come before You, each in our own way, united in gratitude and hope. We give thanks for this extraordinary nation and for the generations of men and women who have served with courage, sacrifice, and honor to preserve its freedoms. As we commemorate the 250th birthday of the United States, may we do more than simply celebrate our history. Inspire us to live worthy of the blessings we have received. Grant us the fortitude to withstand the storms of discord and division, and the wisdom to remain faithful to the enduring truths and ideals upon which this great nation was founded—liberty, justice, equality, and the dignity of every person. Bless our veterans, active-duty service members, their families, and all who continue to answer the call of service. Strengthen them in times of trial, comfort them in moments of sorrow, and surround them with communities of gratitude and care. May peace guide our hearts, courage direct our actions, and compassion shape our relationships. Help us to be people who build bridges, extend grace, and work together for the common good, so that future generations may inherit a nation that is stronger, more united, and filled with hope. With thankful hearts, we ask for Your continued guidance and blessing upon our country. Amen. Chaplain Rios
|
Chaplain Rios
June 2026 Prayer: |
Heavenly Father,
Today we give thanks for the men and women who have served our nation with courage, sacrifice, and honor. We thank You for their dedication, their strength, and their willingness to stand together in times of challenge and uncertainty.
Lord, remind us that just as we stood side by side in service, we are called to stand together through the storms of life. When burdens feel heavy, help us lean on one another. When discouragement comes, help us encourage one another. When fear tries to take hold, fill us with courage and faith.
Teach us to be quick to forgive, slow to anger, and generous in grace. Help us to extend the same loyalty, compassion, and understanding to one another that we learned through shared experiences and sacrifice.
Strengthen the bonds of friendship and brotherhood among veterans and their families. May we never walk alone but always remember that we are more powerful together than apart. Help us lift up those who are struggling, comfort those who are hurting, and celebrate those who are overcoming.
Grant us wisdom for the days ahead, courage for every challenge we face, and hope that carries us through every turn expected and unexpected. May we continue to serve others with honor, integrity, and love.
We place our lives, our families, and our future in Your hands, trusting that You will guide our steps and keep us united in purpose and spirit.
In Your holy name we pray.
Amen
Today we give thanks for the men and women who have served our nation with courage, sacrifice, and honor. We thank You for their dedication, their strength, and their willingness to stand together in times of challenge and uncertainty.
Lord, remind us that just as we stood side by side in service, we are called to stand together through the storms of life. When burdens feel heavy, help us lean on one another. When discouragement comes, help us encourage one another. When fear tries to take hold, fill us with courage and faith.
Teach us to be quick to forgive, slow to anger, and generous in grace. Help us to extend the same loyalty, compassion, and understanding to one another that we learned through shared experiences and sacrifice.
Strengthen the bonds of friendship and brotherhood among veterans and their families. May we never walk alone but always remember that we are more powerful together than apart. Help us lift up those who are struggling, comfort those who are hurting, and celebrate those who are overcoming.
Grant us wisdom for the days ahead, courage for every challenge we face, and hope that carries us through every turn expected and unexpected. May we continue to serve others with honor, integrity, and love.
We place our lives, our families, and our future in Your hands, trusting that You will guide our steps and keep us united in purpose and spirit.
In Your holy name we pray.
Amen
|
Chaplain Rios
May 2026 Prayer: |
O Mighty Creator,
We stand in the midst of flowers blooming, fish biting, and the warmth that comes in Spring. Help us to live our lives aware of the blessings that surround us. Let us "out-love" our family. Let "out-care" for our neighbors. Let us "out-serve" our community. Grant strength and courage in all that we say and do for our fellow Veterans. Let us always remember the shallow graves of liberty and thread the tapestry of our flag. May we live as our comrades died. Serving our country above reproach. In your holy name we pray. Amen.
We stand in the midst of flowers blooming, fish biting, and the warmth that comes in Spring. Help us to live our lives aware of the blessings that surround us. Let us "out-love" our family. Let "out-care" for our neighbors. Let us "out-serve" our community. Grant strength and courage in all that we say and do for our fellow Veterans. Let us always remember the shallow graves of liberty and thread the tapestry of our flag. May we live as our comrades died. Serving our country above reproach. In your holy name we pray. Amen.
Spring flowers
|
Chaplain Rios
April 2026 Prayer: |
My prayer is that you were encouraged today, that you laughed today. And that you were reminded that joy and forgiveness are woven together for a full and peace-filled life. Amen!
Vietnam
|
Chaplain Rios
March 2026 Prayer: |
“When we are at our weakest and most vulnerable, our training, both spiritually and physically, will be our source of courage and strength.” – Ch Kenneth Johnson USAF
Let's Us Prayer:
Glorious Creator. We come before you with only the words of your promise. That in the heart of battle, courage is born anew. Through the fierce roar of battle, the soul's silent strength echoes. We lean upon you, O God, that through the storm of conflict, the light of hope shines brightest. We are reminded that we, as a nation, must always stand ready to be a light of hope to those less fortunate than us. Freedom is the price we all pay for our unyielding spirit. When we as a nation face adversity, we discover the true depths of our strength. That we are the product of vision and blessings, patriot blood is the fabric of freedom. Historical markers of this nation assure us that in chaos, we find clarity; in struggle, we find our purpose. We know, over all the years and wars of this nation, that every drop of blood spilled was not something to mock, but something to revere with humility. War may test our limits, revealing the heroes hidden within us. And Victory isn’t just a goal; it’s a testament of our resolve. And from the ashes of war, through our nation's history, the spirit of humanity rises. We yield before you, as a nation, as a people, as Veterans, and ask for your favor as we face the days and weeks to come. May we be found under your canopy of eternal light. In your holy name we pray. Amen.
Let's Us Prayer:
Glorious Creator. We come before you with only the words of your promise. That in the heart of battle, courage is born anew. Through the fierce roar of battle, the soul's silent strength echoes. We lean upon you, O God, that through the storm of conflict, the light of hope shines brightest. We are reminded that we, as a nation, must always stand ready to be a light of hope to those less fortunate than us. Freedom is the price we all pay for our unyielding spirit. When we as a nation face adversity, we discover the true depths of our strength. That we are the product of vision and blessings, patriot blood is the fabric of freedom. Historical markers of this nation assure us that in chaos, we find clarity; in struggle, we find our purpose. We know, over all the years and wars of this nation, that every drop of blood spilled was not something to mock, but something to revere with humility. War may test our limits, revealing the heroes hidden within us. And Victory isn’t just a goal; it’s a testament of our resolve. And from the ashes of war, through our nation's history, the spirit of humanity rises. We yield before you, as a nation, as a people, as Veterans, and ask for your favor as we face the days and weeks to come. May we be found under your canopy of eternal light. In your holy name we pray. Amen.
|
Chaplain Rios
February 2026 Prayer: |
Glorious Almighty, we pause on this day and throughout this month to focus on our neighbor, our community and our fellow veterans. We seek to rest in the just and good embrace of peace. We are a community of benevolent people. Service and Honor are the threads at the core of our beliefs. Give us compassion, understanding and strength to care for our neighbors, strangers and our fellow veterans. We lay this before your holy and infinite presence. Almighty hear our prayer. Amen!
|
Chaplain Rios
January 2026 Prayer: |
God, we lay down the things that divide. We crush the things that cause emotional pain. We embrace what brings us together. We dedicate this year to the direct order you have given to every human being, "Love thy neighbor"... may we remember you said love, not pick your neighbor. Let us be a light of compassion this year and in the years to come. Bless our community and nation, in your holy name we pray. AMEN
|
Chaplain Rios
December 2025 Prayer: |
"Almighty and most merciful Father, we humbly beseech Thee, of Thy great goodness to restrain these immoderate rains with which we have had to contend. Grant us fair weather for Battle. Graciously hearken to us as soldiers who call upon Thee that armed with Thy power, we may advance from victory to victory, and crush the oppression and wickedness of our enemies, and establish Thy justice among men and nations. Amen." Ch Rev Eusebia Rios
To each officer and soldier in the Third United States Army, I wish a Merry Christmas. I have full confidence in your courage, devotion to duty, and skill in battle. We march in our might to complete victory. May God's blessing rest upon each of you on this Christmas Day. General George Patton, December 25, 1944.
|
Chaplain Rios
November 2025 Prayer: |
"O Mighty God. So easy it is to forget all that we should be thankful for. We are a nation coupled in your hands and still fastened to small-minded, ill-advised presuppositions that tarnish the very lining of who YOU, O Mighty God, created us to be. Let us return to the table of gratitude and humility. Let us once again be burdened with the well-being of our fellow man. Let us truly live and be thankful. May we never forget that we are one nation under God. Let us live by your command to love our neighbors. Let us remember that we are the people you have forged by your hand to uplift and care for our fellow man (all mankind). Let us be a nation of peace, not war. Let us be a nation of benevolence, for you have blessed us with much. Let us be a nation of unity and forgiveness, for you have forgiven us much and brought us together in this nation. Let us live free and remember the shame of tyranny that ruled over us when a monarch told our forefathers what to think and how to live, enslaving us to serve him, not our God. Please help us to cling to the fragile breath of liberty as we hold the light of freedom in a dark world. We are grateful and thankful, and truly a blessed United States. Amen."
|
Chaplain Rios
October 2025 Prayer: |
We stand at the threshold of fall and the anticipation of winter. We look at this month as a reminder of your benevolence and mercy. Let us always choose unity instead of division. Let us choose forgiveness over bitterness. Let us be the first to forgive, let truth prevail. May we always see the good in others and live in the light of kindness and goodness. As veterans, we are bound by our oath and our faith in God and Country. We ask these things and Your blessing upon every veteran, past and present. In your holy name prayer AMEN
Happy Chappy July Thought:
Amazingly, on July 4th, 1826 -- the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence -- two luminaries died... within hours of each other.
Thomas Jefferson and John Adams became fast friends during the First Continental Congress but the political elections, which made them both presidents, illuminated their very different political views, creating a rift that would last most of their lives. A mutual friend engineered a reconciliation between the two, culminating in a rich and heartwarming relationship, documented in twelve years of letters between them, which historians say must be read to be fully appreciated. As two of the few surviving signers of the Declaration of Independence, they were finally able to see that they had far more in common than any differences they had once perceived.
What's more, Adams' last words, as he drifted in and out of consciousness on his final day, were, "Jefferson...survives." In his last moments, Jefferson awakes to ask his aides in his final utterance, "Is it the Fourth?" The aide replied; indeed, it is, Mr. Jefferson. Today is the Fourth of July. We owe you and Mr. Adams tremendous thanks.
The foundation of our Nation; the vision… the hope… and the sacrifice are the truths that embody the precious documents of these United States. They are drenched in the blood, sweat, and tears of a few brave men. Their courage to unite a people, launched from an ink well to paper, in a dim room, glowing in hope. This fragile breath of democracy and of independence took its first steps under a canopy of prayer and inspired by the Word of God. Phrases such as “We the People… the UNITED States… We hold these Truths…” became the mantra of generations past and present. These men, leaving the grip of Tierny and dictatorship, introduced a grandiose and sacred meaning to the ideals of liberty and equality. These beliefs were tangible within the hearts, minds, souls, and conviction of all those willing to place their signature upon the declaration of independence. They fully sought to inspire future generations to nurture and protect the very whisper of our newfound freedom.
I have traveled to many countries. I ask you this: What other nation can freely worship in accordance with their faith? What other nation celebrates diversity? What other nation believe, so deeply, in the farfetched dreams, of their founding fathers who were led by their faith in their God, and in the principles of their faith. Their piety and honor laid out a document to expand and invest in liberty not to smother it.
I can almost hear the moment of silence in that cold damp room, as one by one they shook the dust from their journey to lay affix their signature for posterity. Each man praying in accordance with their faith. Each man looking to the heavens for the strength to build on the fundamental truths that we are ONE nation under God. I can only imagine, with eyes close, they envisioned their family, and the generations to come. To use their example of consecration, to be held accountable and to measure ones integrity and character by the unwavering verse that reads “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. ’There is no commandment greater than these.”
So, as we safely celebrate the 4th of July, let us remember… those who gave their full measure of life and hope to the very foundations of liberty we stand upon. Let us remember all those who have served under the flag of the UNITED STATES. Let us remember that a house divided cannot stand. Let us remember who we are and what we were meant to be: Patriots, Americans, and a light of hope to a world hidden in the shadows of oppression. We are a nation blessed and highly favored. Let us use our strength with great humility and even more compassion.
Chaplain Rios
Amazingly, on July 4th, 1826 -- the 50th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence -- two luminaries died... within hours of each other.
Thomas Jefferson and John Adams became fast friends during the First Continental Congress but the political elections, which made them both presidents, illuminated their very different political views, creating a rift that would last most of their lives. A mutual friend engineered a reconciliation between the two, culminating in a rich and heartwarming relationship, documented in twelve years of letters between them, which historians say must be read to be fully appreciated. As two of the few surviving signers of the Declaration of Independence, they were finally able to see that they had far more in common than any differences they had once perceived.
What's more, Adams' last words, as he drifted in and out of consciousness on his final day, were, "Jefferson...survives." In his last moments, Jefferson awakes to ask his aides in his final utterance, "Is it the Fourth?" The aide replied; indeed, it is, Mr. Jefferson. Today is the Fourth of July. We owe you and Mr. Adams tremendous thanks.
The foundation of our Nation; the vision… the hope… and the sacrifice are the truths that embody the precious documents of these United States. They are drenched in the blood, sweat, and tears of a few brave men. Their courage to unite a people, launched from an ink well to paper, in a dim room, glowing in hope. This fragile breath of democracy and of independence took its first steps under a canopy of prayer and inspired by the Word of God. Phrases such as “We the People… the UNITED States… We hold these Truths…” became the mantra of generations past and present. These men, leaving the grip of Tierny and dictatorship, introduced a grandiose and sacred meaning to the ideals of liberty and equality. These beliefs were tangible within the hearts, minds, souls, and conviction of all those willing to place their signature upon the declaration of independence. They fully sought to inspire future generations to nurture and protect the very whisper of our newfound freedom.
I have traveled to many countries. I ask you this: What other nation can freely worship in accordance with their faith? What other nation celebrates diversity? What other nation believe, so deeply, in the farfetched dreams, of their founding fathers who were led by their faith in their God, and in the principles of their faith. Their piety and honor laid out a document to expand and invest in liberty not to smother it.
I can almost hear the moment of silence in that cold damp room, as one by one they shook the dust from their journey to lay affix their signature for posterity. Each man praying in accordance with their faith. Each man looking to the heavens for the strength to build on the fundamental truths that we are ONE nation under God. I can only imagine, with eyes close, they envisioned their family, and the generations to come. To use their example of consecration, to be held accountable and to measure ones integrity and character by the unwavering verse that reads “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself. ’There is no commandment greater than these.”
So, as we safely celebrate the 4th of July, let us remember… those who gave their full measure of life and hope to the very foundations of liberty we stand upon. Let us remember all those who have served under the flag of the UNITED STATES. Let us remember that a house divided cannot stand. Let us remember who we are and what we were meant to be: Patriots, Americans, and a light of hope to a world hidden in the shadows of oppression. We are a nation blessed and highly favored. Let us use our strength with great humility and even more compassion.
Chaplain Rios
|
Did you know: November 25, 1969. SERVICEMEN AROUND THE WORLD HAVE THANKSGIVING TURKEY |
Hundreds of thousands of U.S. military men and women around the world will receive their Thanksgiving turkey, even men in remote posts in Vietnam. With the official menu announced by Department of Defense including the traditional bird and all the fixings, only those personnel assigned overseas, and on-board ships will enjoy shrimp cocktail due to the devastation of most of the U. S. gulf coast shrimp during Hurricane Camille last August. These men, stationed at Little Creek, Virginia board LCU (Utility Landing Craft) 1625, partake of just a portion of the holiday foods which will be served to the American fighting men and women around the world. A total of approximately 2,800,000 pounds of turkey, 192,000 pounds of shrimp, 787,500 pounds of potatoes, 383,933 pounds of cranberry sauce and 350,000 pounds of fruitcake await the U.S. military personnel on this American holiday. According to the Department of Defense, the same basic menu will be served on Christmas Day.”
The times have changed; however, the mission remains the same. During this season of Thanksgiving let us take hold of this opportunity. An opportunity to unite as family, friends, neighbors and Americans. The shared value of this, United States of America, is our desire to uphold brotherly love towards one another, to minimize the difference and uphold our common values. Let us truly be “One Nation Under God, Indivisible, with justice and liberty for all”
Ch Rev Eusebia Rios
The times have changed; however, the mission remains the same. During this season of Thanksgiving let us take hold of this opportunity. An opportunity to unite as family, friends, neighbors and Americans. The shared value of this, United States of America, is our desire to uphold brotherly love towards one another, to minimize the difference and uphold our common values. Let us truly be “One Nation Under God, Indivisible, with justice and liberty for all”
Ch Rev Eusebia Rios
September 2024, Chaplain Rios on Labor Day:
President Franklin Roosevelt and Prime Minister Winston Churchill had just released the Atlantic Charter which laid the foundation for the international coalition that would stand up to fascism and dictatorship. Starting with his “Four Freedoms” speech in January 1941 FDR had skillfully led the American public away from their isolationist tendencies to a reluctant acceptance of the need to come to the aid of the Allies. Earlier in the year he had convinced a reluctant congress to pass the Lend-Lease Act providing vital military supplies to Great Britain and Russia. He had positioned America as “the arsenal of democracy” and pledged to build hundreds of thousands of planes, tanks and ships. It represents one of the best examples of his extraordinary leadership in transforming public opinion despite overwhelming opposition. On Sept. 1, 1941, FDR gave a Labor Day radio address. It was his first broadcast from the new Presidential Library he had built next to his ancestral home in Hyde Park, NY. (His study is still on public display exactly as it was when he died.) Almighty God, Creator of the world, we give you thanks for the gift of stewardship and work. Deliver us, in our various occupations, from the service of self alone, that we may do our work in truth and beauty and for the common. It is one of his finest broadcasts, a passionate sermon on the importance of democracy and the threat that dictatorships pose to all free people. He did not mince his words: “On this day – this American holiday – we are celebrating the rights of free laboring men and women. The preservation of these rights is vitally important now, not only to us who enjoy them – but to the whole future of Christian civilization. American labor now bears a tremendous responsibility in the winning of this most brutal, most terrible of all wars.” Roosevelt understood that the free world’s only hope for victory over the Axis powers was the application of America’s incredible industrial capacity to the production of war materials. The success of that effort would require an unprecedented level of cooperation between the government, labor and business. He speaks of enemies who believe: “that they could divide and conquer us from within.” “These enemies know that today the chief American fighters in the battles now raging are those engaged in American industry, employers and employees alike.” Near the end of the broadcast FDR makes his most powerful statement about his commitment to democracy. “The task of defeating Hitler may be long and arduous. There are a few appeasers and Nazi sympathizers who say it cannot be done. They even ask me to negotiate with Hitler – to pray for crumbs from his victorious table. They do, in fact, ask me to become the modern Benedict Arnold and betray all that I hold dear – my devotion to our freedom – to our churches – to our country. This course I have rejected – I reject it again. Instead, I know that I speak the conscience and determination of the American people when I say that we shall do everything in our power to crush Hitler and his Nazi forces.” He ends the speech with a simple but powerful statement of hope. “May it be said on some future Labor Day by some future President of the United States that we did our work faithfully and well.”
Ch Rev Eusebia Rios
President Franklin Roosevelt and Prime Minister Winston Churchill had just released the Atlantic Charter which laid the foundation for the international coalition that would stand up to fascism and dictatorship. Starting with his “Four Freedoms” speech in January 1941 FDR had skillfully led the American public away from their isolationist tendencies to a reluctant acceptance of the need to come to the aid of the Allies. Earlier in the year he had convinced a reluctant congress to pass the Lend-Lease Act providing vital military supplies to Great Britain and Russia. He had positioned America as “the arsenal of democracy” and pledged to build hundreds of thousands of planes, tanks and ships. It represents one of the best examples of his extraordinary leadership in transforming public opinion despite overwhelming opposition. On Sept. 1, 1941, FDR gave a Labor Day radio address. It was his first broadcast from the new Presidential Library he had built next to his ancestral home in Hyde Park, NY. (His study is still on public display exactly as it was when he died.) Almighty God, Creator of the world, we give you thanks for the gift of stewardship and work. Deliver us, in our various occupations, from the service of self alone, that we may do our work in truth and beauty and for the common. It is one of his finest broadcasts, a passionate sermon on the importance of democracy and the threat that dictatorships pose to all free people. He did not mince his words: “On this day – this American holiday – we are celebrating the rights of free laboring men and women. The preservation of these rights is vitally important now, not only to us who enjoy them – but to the whole future of Christian civilization. American labor now bears a tremendous responsibility in the winning of this most brutal, most terrible of all wars.” Roosevelt understood that the free world’s only hope for victory over the Axis powers was the application of America’s incredible industrial capacity to the production of war materials. The success of that effort would require an unprecedented level of cooperation between the government, labor and business. He speaks of enemies who believe: “that they could divide and conquer us from within.” “These enemies know that today the chief American fighters in the battles now raging are those engaged in American industry, employers and employees alike.” Near the end of the broadcast FDR makes his most powerful statement about his commitment to democracy. “The task of defeating Hitler may be long and arduous. There are a few appeasers and Nazi sympathizers who say it cannot be done. They even ask me to negotiate with Hitler – to pray for crumbs from his victorious table. They do, in fact, ask me to become the modern Benedict Arnold and betray all that I hold dear – my devotion to our freedom – to our churches – to our country. This course I have rejected – I reject it again. Instead, I know that I speak the conscience and determination of the American people when I say that we shall do everything in our power to crush Hitler and his Nazi forces.” He ends the speech with a simple but powerful statement of hope. “May it be said on some future Labor Day by some future President of the United States that we did our work faithfully and well.”
Ch Rev Eusebia Rios
|
As Hospice Chaplain, Eusebia Rios believes in being present when a veteran passes away so that person does not die alone. She does this outreach for what she calls a "Band of Veterans," honoring their final flight.
Chaplain Rios then donates money to the Arbor Day Foundation to plant a tree in honor of the veteran. It is one more way of her giving to others. |
|
June 14, 2024: Chaplain Rios was honored at the Department State Convention in Rochester, MN, as Minnesota VFW Chaplain of the Year.
(l-r) Department Chaplain Scott Hanson, Chaplain Rios and Department Commander Dan Meyer.
June 4, 2024: Have you ever wondered how to wait? King David (the one who slew Goliath) said he waited patiently on the Lord. But how did he actually accomplish this? Did he sit around and twiddle his thumbs until he recognized God’s work? Or did he do something while he waited? And how can we best emulate the “man after [God’s] own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14)?
It might seem counterintuitive, but waiting often involves action. The pause sometimes feels quite long, especially if you’re waiting for an answer before moving forward. But there are things both we and the Lord can actively accomplish in the interim.
For our part, we should talk to God through prayer about our concerns, dreams, and desires. In the stillness and tension of waiting, we must also read His Word diligently to learn more about His character and love. While we seek the answers, care, and encouragement we need from Him, we develop patience and grow as our faith is strengthened and stretched.
During this time of actively waiting, we begin to see what God does. Like David, we will be lifted from a pit, given a firm place to stand, and receive a new song to sing (Psalms 40:2-3). Yes, waiting is so much more than merely pausing—it allows us to experience God in a deeper and more personal way.
Ch Rev Eusebia Rios
It might seem counterintuitive, but waiting often involves action. The pause sometimes feels quite long, especially if you’re waiting for an answer before moving forward. But there are things both we and the Lord can actively accomplish in the interim.
For our part, we should talk to God through prayer about our concerns, dreams, and desires. In the stillness and tension of waiting, we must also read His Word diligently to learn more about His character and love. While we seek the answers, care, and encouragement we need from Him, we develop patience and grow as our faith is strengthened and stretched.
During this time of actively waiting, we begin to see what God does. Like David, we will be lifted from a pit, given a firm place to stand, and receive a new song to sing (Psalms 40:2-3). Yes, waiting is so much more than merely pausing—it allows us to experience God in a deeper and more personal way.
Ch Rev Eusebia Rios
April 2024, Chaplain Rios:
During the Civil War, Lincoln signed a congressional resolution that made April 30 a day of fasting and prayer. It was co-founded by Congress and signed into law by President Truman. The law was amended and signed by President Reagan for the day to land on the first Thursday of May.
The holiday was signed into law by President Truman, and every president since has signed a proclamation that encourages Americans to pray on and celebrate this day. The national holiday has always been the first Thursday of May every year since it was founded in 1952. It stands as a day that continues the decision-making of the country’s founding fathers, which used the morals from biblical lessons in difficult situations. Basically, using God’s guidance to make important decisions in the country and for yourself. Just like Thanksgiving and Christmas, the National Day of Prayer has become recognized by Americans nationwide, and it is even recognized and celebrated in all Hallmark
calendars.
So, let us take a moment in May and remember our fellow comrades on Memorial Day. Let us use the month of May as a time of prayer and reflection. Amen!
During the Civil War, Lincoln signed a congressional resolution that made April 30 a day of fasting and prayer. It was co-founded by Congress and signed into law by President Truman. The law was amended and signed by President Reagan for the day to land on the first Thursday of May.
The holiday was signed into law by President Truman, and every president since has signed a proclamation that encourages Americans to pray on and celebrate this day. The national holiday has always been the first Thursday of May every year since it was founded in 1952. It stands as a day that continues the decision-making of the country’s founding fathers, which used the morals from biblical lessons in difficult situations. Basically, using God’s guidance to make important decisions in the country and for yourself. Just like Thanksgiving and Christmas, the National Day of Prayer has become recognized by Americans nationwide, and it is even recognized and celebrated in all Hallmark
calendars.
So, let us take a moment in May and remember our fellow comrades on Memorial Day. Let us use the month of May as a time of prayer and reflection. Amen!
February 1, 2024: The Four Chaplains story was told on Brainerd radio stations Chaplain Rios and Mark Persons of the Brained VFW. Also https://fourchaplains.org/
(l-r) Danny Wild, Chaplain Rios, Mac and Mark Persons on KLIZ Radio.
|
Chaplain Rios
|
(l-r) Bill Satre, Chaplain Rios and Mark Persons on KBLB Radio.
Chaplain Rios YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTRYwup2fGJULHGYpUW56tQ
December 31, 2023: A Prayer for Trust in God's Plan. Heavenly Father, “At midnight, When the old year dies… And the new comes bounding in, I draw strength from knowing … That in the next twelve months, the snows will go… The buds will burst … The heat will rise… The leaves will fly, that all these things will happen … according to Your schedule and in Your time; That there is order in Your universe, and that I am part of it.” —Van Varner
The one thing that is constant is time. We can lament the past or look to the future. Either way I pray that you cherish and savor the PRESENT. May God Favor and Blessings help you to soar in Twenty- Twenty-Four! - Chaplain Rios
The one thing that is constant is time. We can lament the past or look to the future. Either way I pray that you cherish and savor the PRESENT. May God Favor and Blessings help you to soar in Twenty- Twenty-Four! - Chaplain Rios
|
|
The oil dipstick on Chappy's car engine reads, "Add two, add one, full and thy cup runneth over."
A minister explained the horse he was selling knew two commands. The horse will go when the rider said, "Praise the Lord," then will stop when it hears "Amen." Trying out the horse, a rider said, "Praise the Lord," but then couldn't remember the stop command when a cliff was just ahead. Finally, he remembered and said, "Amen." The horse stopped just before going over the cliff. The man wiped his forehead saying, "Praise the Lord!"
