Churches Need to Support the USO of NC June 8th in Lincolnton NC

RALEIGH, N.C. - May 15, 2013 - PRLog -- The United Service Organization (USO) is as vital to our society as our churches should be. When you think of the USO, you can’t help but to look at their focus which is to lift the spirits of troops and their families. Our churches are in the same position, lifting the spirits of those who are downtrodden and feeling helpless. There has been millions of dollars raised for the USO throughout the country, and on June 8, 2013, the city of Lincolnton, NC will transform into an event that will continue the tradition in fundraising for the troops and their families.

Hog Happening is a yearly event that will bring bikers from all over together, for the cause of raising money for the USO. One may ask what the connection between the USO and the church is; the focus to lift the spirits of troops and their families. I spoke with Pastor Edward L. Surratt, pastor of Temple of God A.M.E. Zion Church in Cayce, SC concerning the church and its efforts to support the USO. Pastor Surratt stated that “while there are many funds distributed throughout the A.M.E. Zion Church, I don’t recall any being distributed to the USO. However, each church can give and should give to the USO. We all should be aware of how the USO helps the families of our men and women in the armed forces.” The event in Lincolnton is going to be one for all to come and be a part of, as Vyzion Radio has partnered with many local businesses to make this event one of the largest that Lincolnton has ever seen. There will be various venders throughout the event and some have made comments about the sale of alcohol and how this may turn some away, especially from the faith community. I asked Pastor Surratt how he felt about the sale of alcohol at this event and he said “I don’t have a problem with it. We have to understand what the cause is behind this event and come together as one to support the cause. We all have been affected either directly, or indirectly by someone in the military, and if people are so shallow as to allow the sale of alcohol get in the way of a great cause, then let them be. There are bigger things involved during this weekend. If the churches are that concerned, they should use this time as a teachable moment to not only explain the cause, but explain how we all can come together for a great cause. The USO focuses on lifting the spirits of our troops and their families, sometimes in the faith community, you may have to go where there’s drinking and drugs, and what will you do…wait until they come to you? I can’t speak for the other pastors in the community, but I’m looking forward to being a part of this epic event, and my church, Temple Of God A.M.E. Zion, supports me and this event all the way.”

On June 8, 2013, Lincolnton, NC will be transformed into a city with a mission, and we all can truly say thanks to our troops for the great job they have done and the great job they are doing! I encourage each of you to support this event…GOD bless America and her troops that keep us all safe.

http://vyzionradio.com/newspost/churches-uso-june-8/