We need to re-explore the power of liturgies in our lives. Consider the basic structure of worship as it is expressed in Isaiah 6. Full worship consists of becoming aware of the presence of God, experiencing that in our own unworthiness, God takes the initiative to cleanse us and make us worthy, being instructed in purpose of God’s call in our lives, and given the opportunity to respond to that which is much larger than ourselves. In essence, our liturgy reminds us that we are not alone, that even when we feel unworthy, God makes us worthy, and that we have a call to serve something much larger than ourselves.
When you check the symptoms that traumatize some returning veterans, you will note that they can easily be overcome with guilt, feelings of isolation, and a sense of purposelessness in life. Many churches have a liturgy that is variously called a Service of Wholeness or a Healing Service. In those services we are invited to bring our concerns, brokenness, and despair to God in the context of a praying community. We are reminded by our liturgy that God is present and more powerful than that which threatens us. The service often includes having elders or deacons lay their hands on individuals and/or anointing them with oil in order to convey the power of Christ’s healing touch.
I think this might be a powerful service for returned veterans. In an immediate and personal way they can be reminded that they are not alone, that there is one who hears the depth of their pain, can cleanse them of their guilt, and has a purpose for them that incorporates but far exceeds their past experiences of war. Not only that but there is a congregation that seeks to give expression of that healing love by their presence and prayers. It might even be strengthened if a number of congregations came together to offer such a service on behalf of the larger community.
