Chaplain’s Corner: The New Beginning.

As we enter the quiet hush of December, our team invites you to pause, reflect, and reconnect.

This month, let’s lean into gratitude, community, and the simple acts that light our way through the darkest days of the year.

A Word of Reflection

December is a season of contrasts:

the cold, still nights and the warm glow of shared time — the hush of snowfall and the bustle of gatherings — endings that invite new beginnings.

In times of strain, the heart often grows tender.

May we use this season to:

Remember the courage and resilience of those we serve with and those who came before us.

Sit in quiet gratitude for small mercies—a phone call from a friend, a warm mug, a listening ear.

Offer grace to ourselves and others, understanding that everyone carries a story not visible to the eye.

Beacons Worth Sharing

Small, steady acts illuminate our path much more reliably than grand gestures.

Consider these December beacons:

A handwritten note of appreciation to a friend, veteran, or coworker.

A warm meal or cup of cocoa shared with someone who might be lonely.

A listening heart can give someone presence, without pressure.

A moment of silence for reflection, prayer, or simply breath.

If you’d like, bring a “beacon” idea to the blog post—a simple ritual, a memory, or a blessing you’d like to share.

Chaplain’s Comforts:

Quick Practices

Breath Prayer (1 minute):

Inhale slowly for a count of four, exhale for a count of four, with the phrase “Grace and peace” softly on the exhale. Repeat five rounds.

Gratitude Grid (5 minutes):

Write down three people you’re grateful for and one reason why. Carry that list in your pocket or wallet for a daily reminder.

Kindness List (3 minutes):

Each day, do one small kindness for someone else, with no expectation of reciprocation.

December Traditions to Lift the Spirit

Advent Moments:

If your schedule allows, light a single candle with a simple intention for the week, reflecting on hope, peace, joy, and love.

Memory Fires:

Share a favorite veteran’s memory or a story of resilience around the tavern hearth. Let the season’s warmth honor those stories.

Winter Wellness Check:

A short group discussion on mental and physical well-being during the darker days—share resources and support within our circle.

Closing Light

May the firelight of December remind us that even in the cold, we are not alone. Let us carry forward the warmth of this little community into every corner of our days.

~

Prayer for the Season

Gracious Host of all,

thank You for the gift of community and the shelter of fellowship.

Fill our hearts with gratitude for the ordinary miracles—the laughter of friends, the comfort of a warm drink, the steady hands of those who serve.

Grant us patience in the busy days, courage in moments of doubt, and gentleness in our interactions.

May this December be a time of healing, hope, and renewed purpose for all who gather here.

Amen.

~

Peace be with you all.

Cheers and Semper Fidelis, 

R. A. Farrer, USMC

Chaplain , Belleau Wood Tavern

Chaplain,  Plus3Golf

Chaplain, Stones River Chapter, Sons of American Revolution

Tun Militia Commander for Murfreesboro, TN

Board Member, United States Marine Corps Reserve Association

TKE Order of the Shield

6154905715

vols266@gmail.com