Christ the King Lutheran Church, Memphis, TN as an acknowledged chapter of Operation Barnabas through the Armed Forces Office of the LCMS, salutes our active and veteran military throughout the year. In November of each year, we honor our military with a choral tribute in worship, as each branch stands to applause, and each veteran is pinned with a red, white, and blue ribbon to signify their sacrifice for our country. Both active and retired military personnel are honored with a listing in the bulletin, and our deceased veterans are included in the roll as well, as they remain dear to our hearts. Our school children also pay tribute to their heroes in a special chapel service.
As an 
ongoing ministry, CTK’s Quilts of Valor team, Sewn to Honor, designs and pieces beautiful patriotic quilts which are then presented to veterans who have been touched by war. A reception is held in their honor.
On seven significant days throughout the year, including Flag Day, Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and Patriots Day, CTK’s Youth Ministry plants American flags at the homes of those who have subscribed to this service. Each flag is placed with a prayer for our country by team members.
Finally, Job Comfort Dog, in his dual-vested role as Kare-9 Job, ministers specifically to veterans, visiting them in assisted living and nursing facilities, and attending community events such as the recent Family Freedom Festival at VFW Post 5066.
Christ the King is thankful for the sacrifice and devotion to duty which characterize our veterans; it is our privilege to honor them, continually praying that God grants them peace in the knowledge of a job well-done.
Contributed by – Genie Swan
