Change of Command, COVID style

 Change of Command happens everywhere, regardless of circumstance. 

Fair Winds and Following Seas, CAPT O'Connell. 

Welcome aboard, CAPT Ayan.

INVO

 Let us pray.

 Heavenly Father,

 We come together this morning to witness the passing of the torch of command from Capt O’Connell to Capt Ayan.

In her time aboard Lake Erie, she put her faith in her crew, as she embodied the words of Isaiah, “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you; when you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned; nor shall the flame kindle upon you.” (Isaiah 43:2)

She led with integrity, pushed us to strive for excellence, supported each of us, and thus, accomplished the missions that came our way.

Lord, in this time of transition, we ask that You continue to guide Capt O’Connell, as she takes her next assignment leading sailors, and strengthening the Navy’s ability to be a force for good in the world.

God, bless Capt O’Connell, Brian and Alayna, as they follow the second start to the right and straight on til morning, in their family’s next big adventure.

May they be blessed with time with which to create lasting memories, making up for when they had to be apart, as all three have sacrificed so much in service to this country.

Amen.

BENE

Let us pray.

 Source of the heart of every warfighter,

 It is our wish and prayer, that You stand by Captain Ayan, as he embarks on this new journey, as Commanding Officer of LKE.

Guide him to build on Capt O’Connell’s successes, preparing the ship and crew to be ready to answer the call, whenever it may come.

Lord, we ask that You consecrate this union between Capt Ayan and the LKE, so he can lead us to success, taking the ship, and crew, to even greater heights.

Bless Catherine, Alyssa, Morgan and Nathaniel with unending love they have shared with Capt Ayan, so they may support him, as he leans on them for re-energized vigor and continuous strength. And may they know patience, for when they are separated from him due to late nights, long weekends and under-ways. 

May You bless the labors of Capt Ayan’s hands, directing him towards success, as Moses said to Joshua, “Chazak V’Ematz” be strong and of good courage.

Amen.