My unit is an Air Defense unit. We have oversight of a couple of battalions here in Germany, and a couple of Missile Defense Batteries located in other places. Essentially what we do is to provide mobile air defense against airplanes, helicopters and missiles.

What has my ministry looked like? It’s been an eclectic blend of weekly bible study, counseling, supervision of subordinate unit ministry teams (including regular visits), preaching occasionally in the chapel on post and involvement in religious support operations.

This weekend I am supporting a retreat in Garmisch, Germany for single Soldiers to teach them life skills in preparation for marriage including communication skills and conflict resolution.

I’ve also had an opportunity to take in the sites, as some of you have seen on Facebook. We took an official unit visit to Normandy and I’ve been able to take a couple of side trips on my own. I’m trying to do it while I can – it’s going to get busy later this winter and into the spring and we’ll have much less downtime.

Mary Ann and Margaret are coming to visit in a couple of weeks. Being away from home is the toughest part of deployment. On a regular deployment we are authorized leave to come home for a couple of weeks, but on this one we do not get leave. So, it’s extra special that they’ll get to come over here.

I hope all of you are well. I jump online to watch service when I can, but many weekends I’m not able to (e.g., this weekend I’ll be returning from the retreat). The services I have managed to catch have been a breath of fresh air and we are blessed to have such capable preaching and teaching!

I’m excited to hear how your Christmas goes. Remember to carry the momentum and share with people what an incredible God we have. Invite them to be a part of the celebration! We have Christmas parades coming up and, of course, our annual Christmas Eve Worship Service in the Park. Make sure you don’t miss it and I can’t wait to see pictures and hear about it!

One last thing: some of you tried to text me in October. I received those texts, but I think some of you didn’t receive my replies. Your carriers may not allow texts from overseas. If you have an iPhone it goes through on iMessage, but if you have another brand it typically doesn’t go through. The best way to say hi is by my church email address: chris@beach.church or message me on Facebook. I’m not on Facebook during the day of course, but I can answer messages in the evening Germany time.

Have a great Christmas and a wonderful New Year!

In Him,
Pastor Christian Magnell