Solid Rock Ministries, located at 610 S. Alleghany Ave. in Covington, hosted a “First Responders Appreciation Meal” at their establishment on Sunday, June 25th. It was their first time hosting the event that Pastor Pam Irvine has frequently said was put on her heart some time ago. “It was a success,” said Irvine. “We sent out many meals today to Sheriff’s Office, Covington Police Department, and the Fire Department… We [Solid Rock Ministries] want to encourage them [first responders] to still move forward and stay in their calling and that we’re here anytime to help.”
Kyle Matt Moore, 2024 candidate for sheriff, was present for the service and took the time to share a testimony with the congregation regarding his 28 years in the Army, which included a round-trip ticket to Iraq. “I prayed a lot for my team, that we would come home, and we did. All ten of us. God was responsible for that,” Moore said.
Retired Roanoke City Police Captain and guest speaker, Rick Morrison, then stood behind the pulpit to share a powerful testimony where he discussed his years “in an emotional fog” that was akin to driving in one, unable to see the road around you. “The fog can be very difficult to recognize once you’re in it. If you stay in it too long, that fog becomes your reality,” Morrison stated. He concluded with a personal story that left many in tears. In it, Morrison had an unfortunate exchange with a repeat offender. Though the exchange was a negative one, it had a tremendous impact on him in that, it ultimately led to him being pulled out of his emotional fog and finally seeing clearly again.
Colonel Chris Fisher was also present at the First Responders Meal. Afterwards, he was kind enough to help deliver some of the 35-40 meals that were sent out to first responders who were unable to attend. When asked if there was anything he would like to add, he stated simply, “Love one another, be there for one another, and with God, all things are possible.”