LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. –
For 20 years, each Wednesday morning, military and civilians of all ranks have met for a dose of fellowship and faith at Langley Air Force Bases, Va.'s Chapel Annex.
The Langley Bible study has keept spirits high, and allowing attendees to enjoy camaraderie devoted to encouragement and nurturing of the soul.
"Spiritual fitness is one of four key pillars with our Comprehensive Airmen Fitness, and this Bible study gathering is an outward demonstration that our hope and strength is not limited to our own abilities, but also comes from our relationship with our creator God," said Col. Jim Browning, Air Combat Command deputy command chaplain. "This group meets weekly to study the Bible and to take its precepts for a personal application. In doing so, we not only encourage one another, but we also grow in our own level of resilience and faith."
The Bible study started in 1992 under the leadership of retired Brig. Gen. Dick Abel, former Director of Public Affairs, Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, and retired Lt. Gen. Steve Croker, former Vice Commander of Air Combat Command.
"Some may not attend church, but come here because it's a friendly get-together that's non-threatening," said Abel. "It's a spiritual injection in the middle of the week that sets them on the right track."
To mark the 20th anniversary of this Bible study, a number of current and past attendees were asked to share some of their reflections from the Wednesday morning get-together. Retired Chief Master Sgt. Harold Bromell has been attending the Bible study since 2001, and echoes Abel's remarks when he says the study is a "mid-week pick-me-up," and has made a significant impact in his life.
Former 1st Fighter Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Matt Molloy agreed. "The Wednesday [Bible] Study was a midweek 'spiritual booster shot,' and a fantastic source of learning, discipleship and mutual encouragement."
The study averages 25 to 30 attendees per week, and begins with prayer. The group then delves into a Bible lesson and discussion applicable to all.
Topics rotate frequently so that newcomers, and those who must miss due to temporary duty and deployment, can come in without feeling behind.
"These lessons re-energize military members who work very hard, said Retired Col. Chuck Macri, National Director of Cru, Military Ministry. "It's a way to boost motivation and keep their efforts high for the Air Force."
Core Leaders develop lessons that address an area of concern, a book of the Bible, or a character theme. At times, special guests are invited to teach or speak about current issues for Airmen.
Fellowship, mentorship, and accountability are some of the best aspects of the Bible study. Often people will transfer to another base, but come back to visit the Bible study during a TDY trip to Langley. It is a testament to the stability and loyal fellowship resident in those who attend the study.
Former ACC/A8 commander retired Maj. Gen. Jack Catton summed up his experience at the Bible study by saying, "The Langley AFB Bible study provided me with accountability to strive for a life of integrity and moral character at work and at home. I also credit the Langley Bible study for helping countless Airmen better understand how to appropriately live out their faith while members of a faith diverse Air Force. We all owe Gen Dick Abel a great debt of gratitude for his faithfulness to this Bible study and mentorship of countless numbers of us who reaped the benefits of his servant heart and leadership."
The Langley Bible study meets every Wednesday from 6:15 to 7:15 a.m. in the Langley Chapel Annex auditorium. For more information, call Joe Shirey at 757-764-5527, Charlie Harris at 757-928-7262, or Chuck Macri at 757-928-7220.