The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) hosted its third annual Arms in Prayer Service on January 9, 2025, at HMBS Coral Harbour. This significant event, marking the start of a new year, united officers, marines, and ministers in a powerful session of prayer and reflection. It is a cornerstone of the RBDF’s commitment to fostering the spiritual well-being of its members.
Permanent Secretary Ms. Bridget E. Hepburn, was in attendance and in her address, encouraged the marines to trust in divine guidance, quoting Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all thy heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all thy ways acknowledge him, and he will direct thy paths.” Her words served as a gentle reminder of the important role faith plays in both personal and professional life.
The featured speaker, Assistant Chaplain Force Chief Petty Officer John Ingraham, delivered a compelling message on the transformative power of prayer. He emphasized prayer as a vital source of strength and guidance, particularly for those serving in the Defence Force. His message set the tone for a series of prayers that followed, each focusing on specific aspects of the RBDF and the broader Bahamian community.
Prayers were offered for leadership (Force Chief Petty Officer John Ingraham), the youth of the Bahamas (Commander Delvonne Duncombe), deployed marines (Commander Origin Deleveaux), the women of the Bahamas and RBDF (Petty Officer Edna Hart), the men of the Bahamas (Reserve Chief Petty Officer Preston Collins), and for veterans and reserves (Chief Petty Officer Oscar Finylason).
These prayers reflected the collective hope and commitment to a year guided by faith and purpose. They reflected the RBDF’s focus on spiritual development as an integral part of Commander Defence Force’s strategic objective focused on organizational transformation.
Commander Defence Force, Commodore Raymond King, reaffirmed the importance of spiritual growth within the organization. Under his leadership, the RBDF Chaplaincy Office has laid a strong spiritual foundation for the year, encouraging members to seek God’s guidance in their professional and personal lives. The RBDF remains steadfast in its mission to protect and uphold the nation’s heritage while nurturing its members’ spiritual and emotional well-being.
(RBDF Photos by: Able Seaman Macmillan Estilien & Marine Seaman Edwin Basden)
