Regent University Military Resource Center Hosts Annual Veterans Prayer Breakfast

 

Friday, November 9, only a few days before Veterans Day and a centennial Armistice Day (a commemoration of the end of World War I), veterans and active duty service members gathered for Regent University Military Resource Center’s (MRC) annual Veterans Prayer Breakfast.

The MRC provides services and support for veterans and active duty service members — and their families — within the Regent community. They assist individuals transitioning into student life, specifically in areas of both academic and spiritual growth.

“Every year we try to celebrate, as best we can, our veterans,” said MRC Senior Director, Dr. Bob Habib. “I really believe there’s a direct affinity between [Regent’s] mission … and how we come together as a community.”

Dr. Mark Jumper, assistant professor of theological and ministerial studies, likened joining the armed forces to “signing a blank check” with your life.

“[They] had the dedication to put themselves at risk — body, mind and spirit,” he said. “This risk was taken gladly, and we thank God for their honor, courage, their commitment to the highest ideals bought with their highest price, with His highest help.”

Tanya Canty, a U.S. Navy veteran of 21 years, discussed her work in serving veterans as senior director of Mission United — an entity of United Way that provides veterans a one-stop shop for “access to critical resources for military personnel.”

“We see a large population of veterans that just can’t make ends meet,” she said. “We see them and it’s a huge wake-up call.” Mission United currently has more than 50 partners, including Regent. “We cannot work alone,” said Canty. “If you think you can work alone … You can’t.”

“We’re here together because we believe in one common theme, and that’s to serve,” Habib said. “Our service men and women out there have a significant responsibility to this country … Their success is everyone’s responsibility.”