On Thursday, June 22nd, after a long day of work aboard the aircraft carrier George H. W. Bush (CVN 77), the foc'sle was transformed from an important work station with an imposing anchor chain into an arena.

The lights were dimmed, chairs were set out and there was a buzz of excitement as the Sailors trickled in for this special night. Promptly at 1900, the speakers erupted with the sound of drums and guitars. Everyone jumped to their feet and started singing and clapping.

On an aircraft carrier in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea, this is definitely the closest thing to a live rock concert that you will get to see.

Beneath all of the music and lights, this concert served a different purpose: worship. The band covered songs by popular Christian groups, including Hillsong, Citizens and Kings, and Elevation Worship. This was the second worship night so far this deployment. The events are designed for Sailors as a time of fellowship and praise.

Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 3rd Class Jason Comeau has attended both of the Worship Nights this deployment and enjoys them.

"Worship Night is basically a coming together of all believers while out on deployment," said Comeau. "Having your brothers and sisters in Christ that you can rely on definitely makes your time on the ship a lot easier."

The band is diverse in rank and rates, with junior enlisted Sailors joining together with senior officers to serve a common purpose. Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Selina Salgado and Cryptologic Technician (Technical) 2nd Class Aubrey Sapp are both assigned to S-11 and sing in the choir.

"We don't have any previous singing experience, unless you count singing in the shower," said Sapp. "I started singing for the choir because they needed more people, and I kind of just fell in love with it and kept doing it."

"Worship is the most exciting part of the service for me," said Salgado. "I liked how no one wanted to leave at the end."

Towards the end of the night, Comeau took the mic and spoke about his personal experience and testimony.

"When I joined the Navy, I thought I would be able to change the ship and give people hope, but when I got here, I fell into the common mindset of hopelessness," said Comeau. "My ideas about the Navy kind of got shattered. But in the rough times, God was still there. I learned that we won't always be happy, but we can always have joy. We won't always be in good circumstances, but we can always have peace. I may not be able to change my current situation, but I can change my attitude toward it."

A third worship night is currently being planned. All are welcome to attend. For more information about performing in the band or choir, contact the Command Religious Ministries Department.


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For more news from USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77), visit www.navy.mil/.