Tuesday Afternoon, November 7, 2023

MRFF GUARDEDLY COMMENDS

VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

FOR INCLUDING MINORITY FAITHS IN

RELIGIOUS OBSERVANCES EMAIL

Throughout its history, MRFF has had plenty of disputes with the Veterans Administration and Veterans Health Administration (VHA) regarding the unconstitutional display of sectarian religious symbols at its taxpayer-funded government facilities and proselytizing of non-Christian veteran patients by VA medical facility staff members, most ending in victories for our veteran clients, but not without requiring the intervention of MRFF.

And it is in light of MRFF’s history of issues with the VA over its failures to uphold its constitutionally-mandated religious neutrality that we also want to commend any VA attempts to promote religious inclusion. One such highly commendable action by the VHA was brought to our attention by a number of MRFF supporters and clients, who forwarded us a “Message From the Veterans Health Administration” that exemplifies the kind of religious inclusivity that MRFF's veteran clients want to see from the VA.

VHA “November Spiritual Reflection” email, a list of religious observances for the month, includes the observances of six non-Christian faith traditions!

This welcome message of inclusivity gives Hindu, Jewish, Sikh, Baha’i, Jain, and Buddhist observances the same attention as Christian observances, ending with a statement that MRFF couldn't agree with more:

“In these trying times, let us remember

that we are stronger together than apart.”

From: Veterans Health Administration <VeteransHealth.Administration@va.gov>

Sent: Friday, November 3, 2023 9:09 AM

To: Veterans Health Administration <VeteransHealth.Administration@va.gov>

Subject: November Spiritual Reflection

MESSAGE FROM THE VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

November 3, 2023

November Spiritual Reflection

Welcome to November’s spiritual reflection. We hope this offering provides an opportunity to generate curiosity, open dialogue and foster dignity and respect for our VA teammates and Veterans.   

All Saints’ Day (Christian) – November 1: This day, which honors all saints who have reached heaven, reflects our mission to serve Veterans with Integrity and Excellence and underscores the values of Integrity and Respect for diverse spiritual beliefs.

Karva Chauth (Hindu) – November 1: Originally, women prayed for the safety and protection of soldiers, and in modern days, married women fast and pray for the well-being of their spouses. The I CARE value of Respect shines through this observance, as it centers on the well-being of loved ones, including service members.

All Souls Day (Christian) – November 2: All Souls’ Day commemorates the souls of those who have passed away. The value of Respect is reflected in this observance as well.

Dhanteras (Hindu) – November 10: Observed in India as the first day of the festival of Diwali and in Nepal as the festival of Tihar. On this day, supplicants pray to Dhanvantari, the Hindu god of medicine, for a long, healthy life, free of diseases.

Diwali (Hindu) – November 12: The Festival of Lights symbolizes the victory of good over evil. Lamps are lit as a sign of hope and celebration. The triumph of good over evil symbolizes our dedication to Integrity, Respect for diverse cultures and Excellence in celebrating this victory of light.

Rosh Chodesh Kislev (Jewish) – November 13: This Hebrew holiday, marking the birth of a new moon, reflects Respect for cultural diversity and the Excellence required in tracking time.

Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini (Christian) – November 13: The feast day of the patron saint of hospital administrators. She established schools and orphanages and was the first U.S. citizen to be canonized a saint by the Catholic Church. Her work reflects our commitment to Compassion and Respect.

Bhai Dooj (Hindu) – November 14: Celebrates the bond between brothers and sisters as brothers bestow gifts to their sisters, who pray for the success and well-being of their brothers. This holiday reflects our mission to care for Veterans and their families.

Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne (Christian) – November 18: Recognized for her care and education of Indigenous American survivors, she exemplifies Compassion, Respect and Excellence in serving diverse communities.

Chhath Puja (Hindu) – November 19: Observed in honor of the Sun and the goddess Chhathi Maiya for bestowing life on earth and fulfilling particular wishes. Compassion and Respect are evident in this observance as we express gratitude for life.

Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro (Christian) – November 23: Blessed Miguel spent his life in a secret ministry to Mexican Catholics and was martyred for his faith. Compassion and Respect shine through his unwavering commitment to Christian faith.

Martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib – (Sikh) – November 24: Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib was the ninth Sikh Guru. He was beheaded for refusing conversion to another religion, resonating with our commitment to Integrity and Respect.

Day of the Covenant (Baha’i) – November 25: Celebrates the appointment of ʻAbdu'l-Bahá as the Centre of Baha'u'llah's Covenant, reflecting our mission to serve with Integrity and Excellence in acknowledging diverse religious traditions.

Christ the King (Christian) – November 26: The Feast of Christ the King was begun by Pope Pius XI, reminding the Church to acknowledge Christ’s kingship with one’s whole life, which exemplifies the values of Commitment and Integrity.

Guru Nanak Birthday, also Kartik Purnima (Sikh) – November 27: Commemorates the birth of Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, which aligns with our VA mission reflecting our commitment to Compassion, Respect and Excellence in celebrating the Sikh tradition.

Ascension of 'Abdu'l-Baha (Baha’i) – November 27: The Ascension of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá is a holy day commemorating the death of ‘Abdu’l-Bahá, which reminds us of the value of spiritual leaders. This also reminds us that caring for Veterans, their families and caregivers includes memorializing them after they pass.

Kartik Purnima (Hindus, Jains, and Sikhs)– November 27: Translates to The Full Moon of the Month Kartik and is the end of the holy period of chaturmasya. Prabodhini Ekadashi signifies the awakening of the god. Jains begin their wandering Padyatra, (i.e., travel) on foot. This day is also celebrated as the birthday of Kalikalasarvajna, Acharya Bhagavant Srivijay Hemachandrasooriji, born on this day. The various meanings of this holiday for three religions reflect our connectedness with each other, even with differences. Our core value of Respect is reinforced every time we honor our differences.

Loy Krathong (Buddhist) – November 28: Also known as a festival of lights. Pays homage to the water goddess Mae Khongkha. The idea behind krathongs is to put all your misfortunes in a boat before allowing them to float away from sight, reminding us that in the community we can release our burdens. The I CARE value of Commitment follows with this holiday as we set aside time to pay our respects to our Higher Power. 

Saint Andrew's Day (Christian) – November 30: A feast day celebrating the disciple who, according to the New Testament, introduced his sibling, the Apostle Peter, to Jesus. Reminding us to share our gifts and talents as they may change the world. Our new VA mission statement emphasizes our desire to reach and care for all our nation's Veterans, their families, caregivers and survivors.

In these trying times, let us remember that we are stronger together than apart. 

Some of MRFF's many VA and VHA battles

and victories over the last few years

“as always you found the best words, at the best time”

From: (name and email withheld)

Date: November 6, 2023 at 1:29:35 PM MST

To: mikey@militaryreligiousfreedom.org

Mikey,

Thanks for your response….posted recently via MRFF site….regarding the current Middle East war (it will continue I’m certain—-it IS a WAR) that began with innocent Jewish citizens being murdered during a weekend sleep, slumber, relaxation, and celebration.

Will we ever learn? Us…we…humans…will we ever learn?

The anguish has to be indescribable, and I’m unable to find words in my vocabulary that express something I’m both personally unfamiliar with yet feel the need to fight for…

As a religious and spiritual explorer, and lover of all humanity, I’m anchored in a state of confusion and harshly loyal to the ideals of religious freedom. I’m lost for words my fellow USAF warrior….

….BUT!!….as always you found the best words, at the best time.

My heart and my love is with all that feel broken. This is so very sad.

(name withheld). USAF Fighter Pilot, Retired.

“Military Religious Freedom Foundation”

From: (MRFF supporter’s e-mail address withheld)

Subject: Military Religious Freedom Foundation 

Date: November 5, 2023 at 5:51:18 PM MST

To: Mikey Weinstein <mikey@militaryreligiousfreedom.org>

As a mixed-blood descendant of both an American Soldier of the American Revolution and of Native American Indian 1st Peoples soldiering in the American Civil War I can attest to the basic human need for religious spiritual fulfillment and attunement with one’s own inner being and greater being, for one’s own self and health. 

Life is a struggle and a challenge, each in our own way; our connection to great reality and existance in our own personal way is a right that each of us has. In the depths of ourselves, often in moments of need, we find the expressions that work for each of us, uplifting and empowering our Life. We need no one to authorize ourselves to connect with Life as we personally need and want to. Thank you all at the Military Religious Freedom Foundation so much for the service that you render with your time, effort and expertise; as well as all Service members. May you all find your own personal strength in your own personal way and choice.

Much Respect and Big Love to each, every & all !!!! 

(MRFF supporter’s name and all other ID withheld)

If you haven't already, please take a minute to submit our petition letter opposing Turner's amendment to your representative and senators.

This form submits a letter to Congress on your behalf, which

will be sent to your U.S. Representative in the House and your

U.S. Senators urging removal of Christian Nationalist Rep. Turner's

blatantly unconstitutional NDAA amendment and, additionally,

sends a copy to the entire Senate Armed Services Committee.

Previous MRFF coverage of

Christian nationalist Rep. Turner's amendment