In the years since September 11, 2001, a new generation of American military personnel has been deployed to war zones around the world. In a time of war, those called into the service of others often turn to spiritual resources for perspective and the strength to persevere. As individuals standing in harms way by the circumstances of war consider their eternal destiny, published materials that answer lifes tough questions are urgently needed and remain in especially high demand.

Strength for Service was brought back to life in 2002 by an Eagle Scout named Evan Hunsberger. After discovering a worn copy of the volume that had belonged to his World War II Corpsman grandfather, Hunsberger devoted himself to the republishing of Strength for Service. The original book had been published in 1942 by Abingdon-Cokesbury Press, an imprint of the Methodist Publishing House. A popular devotional for armed forces personnel during World War II and the Korean conflict, one million copies of Strength for Service had been distributed before the book fell out of print in the 1950s. Updating its contents only slightly to reflect contemporary language and culture, the newly republished volume remains true to its original spirit while adding reflections and devotions from contemporary religious leaders. Today, Strength for Service is available in three colors and a uniform new typesetting, acknowledging the old while addressing present day concerns. Strength for Service has found an audience in military personnel deployed throughout the world in a time of war; more than 450,000 copies have been distributed since Hunsbergers original goal was achieved.

Following the attacks of September 11, 2001, the General Commission on United Methodist Men (GCUMM) has been actively raising awareness and financial support to supply a copy to every man and woman serving in the U.S. armed forces worldwide. As steward of the project, the organization has begun developing plans for subsequent versions of Strength for Service that would appeal to public servants and other civilians.

We invite your support and encourage you to purchase a copy of the book, donate to the fund, or host an event to promote the continued publication of Strength for Service at this critical time in our nations history.