New Testament and Psalms for Orthodox Christian military personnel a first
In a recent press release, the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America announced that in conjunction with the American Bible Society and the Standing Conference of Canonical Orthodox Bishops in the Americas [SCOBA], it has made available the first-ever English edition of the New Testament and Psalms specifically for Orthodox Christians serving in the armed forces.
“It is my heartfelt prayer that these sacred words of Scripture, icons, and the accompanying daily prayers will serve as a source of strength and encouragement for our dedicated service men and women in the Armed Forces”, said His Eminence, Archbishop Demetrios of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese, SCOBA chairman, in the release. “Wherever the tour of duty calls them, may this pocket edition of the New Testament be a constant reminder of the fervent intercessions that are offered to God by those whom they protect, for their health, safety and well-being.”
The release goes on to note that the edition features a camouflage cover and conforms to military specifications so that it can easily be carried in a uniform or backpack. Unique to this edition are the Orthodox Christian morning and evening prayers; mealtime prayers; an article on living an Orthodox Christian life while serving in the military; full color icons of military-specific saints; a daily Bible reading guide; a prayer list to remember the names of the living and deceased; maps; and many other useful aids.
The edition was formally presented to the American Bible Society’s Board of Trustees on Friday, May 15, 2009, by the Rev. Mark Arey, SCOBA General Secretary; the Rev. William Bartz, a US Navy chaplain; the Very Rev. Jerome Cwiklinski, an OCA priest and captain/chaplain in the US and a Marine veteran of Desert Storm; and Mr. Theo Nicolakis, the Archdiocese’s representative to the American Bible Society.
Copies may be ordered on-line at www.goarch.org or www.scoba.us/military.