Maryland National Guard celebrates faith partners support during appreciation luncheon

By 1st Lt. Paul Jeong

ANNAPOLIS, Md. – In a gathering of faith and community, the Maryland Army National Guard’s Joint Force Headquarters Chaplain’s Office hosted a “Partners In Care” program appreciation luncheon at the Annapolis Hilton DoubleTree, November 1, 2023. 

The “Partners In Care” event brought together Guard Soldiers and their families with church leaders to highlight the significance of fostering strong relationships with local faith communities. 

“It puts front and center, how important faith is,” Maryland Army National Guard Lt. Col. Lonnie Wortham, State Chaplain. “I believe with all my heart, that without God life becomes unmanageable, without God life gets difficult, without God you lose your way very easily.” 

The event began with opening remarks by Maryland Army National Guard Chaplain First Lt. Iesha Yibass and the 29th Army Band band played the National Anthem and event music. 

In addition to a meal, congregation partners were able to learn about the mission purpose of the “Partners In Care” program. This program is designed to provide faith-based support to Guard members and their families when they seek or need it. 

Chaplain Wortham also had a call to action for the audience.

“You are needed, so that we can impress upon the hearts and minds of our colleagues and peers that faith matters,” said Wortham. 

A distinguishing feature of the “Partners In Care” program is its inclusivity. All faith communities are welcome to participate, emphasizing the program’s commitment to diversity and unity.

For those interested in learning more about the “Partners In Care” community and mission, Chaplain First Lt. Iesha Yibass please, contact her at 677-296-3223 or by email at Iesha.n.yibass.mil@army.mil.