Prayer Breakfast draws a crowd

  • Published
  • By Senior Master Sgt. Nancy Ausland
  • 114th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. --  The 114th Fighter Wing held its annual prayer breakfast at Joe Foss Field, S.D. April 11 with a record number of attendees receiving the message given by keynote speaker, Mr. Brian Hansen, former NFL player and Ministry Director for the South Dakota Fellowship of Christian Athletes.

Colonel Harrison Lippert, Headquarters, South Dakota Air National Guard chaplain, opened the breakfast with a hymn and a prayer after attendees were served a meal prepared by 114th Force Support Squadron members.  Additionally, background music was provided by Aleigha and Seth Glidewell, daughter and son of Tech. Sgt. Ryan Glidewell, 114th Fighter Wing chaplains assistant.

Brian Hansen was introduced and his biography read by Lt. Col. William Tesch, 114th Fighter Wing chaplain.

"If there has been a theme running through the selection of speakers for our annual prayer breakfasts it would have to be faith-based leadership." said Tesch.  "This year, Brian Hansen was invited because he is an acknowledged and respected Christian leader of young men and women in the athletic community."

Hansen, who grew up in Hawarden, Iowa, had a 15 year career in the NFL as a punter and played for the New Orleans Saints, the New England Patriots, the Cleveland Browns, the New York Jets,  and the Washington Redskins.

"I wanted to speak about the two things I know best, football and Christianity." said Hansen.

Hansen recounted some of his experiences in the NFL and how his faith and Christianity played a vital part in his success.  He stated that he has asked himself one question throughout his life quite often.  That question is; "How in the world did I get here?"  He believes it was divine intervention that has allowed him to do the things he's achieved such as playing for so many years in the NFL.

Each year the Chaplains staff of the 114th Fighter Wing tries to bring in a new keynote speaker in for the event.

"We knew Brian would have something important and relevant to share." stated Tesch.   "His inspiring message about the importance of investing one hundred percent in your faith in God did not disappoint."