Sunrise on the USS Constitution

TERRY SHANAHAN, NE REGIONAL MINISTER

“Old Ironsides”, the USS Constitution, has been through it all and lived to tell about it – as her nickname suggests. Built of a sturdy oak, pine, and hardware forged by Paul Revere himself, she was built to withstand and hold back enemy ships that, by her careful design, would be inferior to her.

The Constitution endured hard battles, led chases that went at only 15 miles per hour, fought against Barbary pirates and more. But this past April on Easter Sunday, a sunrise service open to the public was held and conducted by CCCC Chaplains Jonathan Black, Matt Drayton and Robert Leroe. Just as this majestic ship has lasted the test of time the gospel message that was proclaimed has endured as well.

In Matt Drayton’s words, “…with Bob Leroe on strings and vocals, Jon Black on Psalm 100 and Communion, and myself on Prayers and Sermon, it seemed someone has stacked the deck.” We know that someone was God himself. The CCCC was well represented as many came and heard the resurrection message.

The USS Constitution is a proud part of our American heritage; she served her country well. She rests in Boston Harbor where you can come aboard and take a tour. Next year when you come to New England for the Annual Gathering, be sure to visit Old Ironsides and walk the Freedom Trail through Boston. Along the way you will come by Park Street Church, a CCCC “flagship”church and another historic place that you won’t want to miss.