Residents at Three Tree Lodge, Tanderra and Tabulam in Portland had the chance to meet George Auld who was dressed in the ancient outfit from head to toe.

Mr Auld is a member of Lithgow and Portland Anglican Church. A small group of dedicated church members visit the homes regularly and conduct church services for the benefit of the residents.

These services include preaching from the Bible, singing hymns and Holy Communion.

“As happens after normal church gatherings on Sundays, we stay for a chat after the service,” Mr Auld said.

So where does the Roman centurion fit in?

During November, the church gatherings looked through the book of Ephesians, specifically chapter six, which features the descriptive passage about the full armour of God.

It describes the appearance of a Roman soldier in full battle uniform and how it symbolises the life of a Christian.

The armour includes the belt of truth, breastplate of righteousness, feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace, shield of faith, helmet of salvation and sword of the Spirit.

The group read from Ephesians chapter six which says, “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.”

Christmas services will be conducted at each of the three nursing homes during the month of December.