Introduction
Religious support for soldiers in the pluralistic Army environment is an essential aspect of chaplains’ activities for a number of reasons. Despite the fact that church ministers do not directly participate in military operations and special combat training, it is in their power to inspire soldiers and provide them with spiritual assistance. Regardless of the religion of the military, support is important as a factor that relieves fear and gives strength during a difficult period. Proactively working with army leaders to convey religious values ​​to personnel and forging productive relationships with other chaplains in military units are solutions to provide comprehensive spiritual support in the pluralistic Army environment.
Working with Army Leaders
Chaplains’ task does not imply simply communicating with military personnel and involves a deeper mission. According to the Department of the Army, “the chaplain advises the commander and staff on morals, moral, ethical issues, and the impact of religion on all aspects of military operations.” This means that, even without being able to take a direct part in military events, interaction with leaders allows conveying to them the need to establish a favorable microclimate in the units. Soldiers face a constant burden, which concerns not only physical efforts but also moral experiences.
Regardless of the faith of one’s target audience, a chaplain can promote an environment of interaction in which everyone can turn to God, as stated in “The Book of Worship:” “Help us to have your peace in our lives.” The easiest way to get this message across is by interacting with Army leaders who have a direct impact on subordinates and can arrange stable encounters. This approach is a convenient form of communication and promotes spiritual support for a wide range of soldiers.
Maintaining Relationships with Other Chaplains
Active interaction with church peers in other military units is a practice to provide full support to military personnel through collective assistance. By following the Code of Ethics, a church representative should build relationships with other chaplains to participate in holistic spiritual education and, at the same time, learn about the problems and challenges of other chaplains. Military units can have a heterogeneous composition with distinctive beliefs.
However, regardless of soldiers’ faith traditions, each of them has the right to count on the support and acceptance of God. In calling for confession, chaplains do not seek to convert people to a specific faith. They only direct by saying as follows: “Let us offer our confessions to God that we may be cleansed of anything that might hinder our efforts.” By promoting this practice of collective action and organizing active interaction with other ministers of the church, chaplains can carry the word of God among the military. Spreading the greatness of Jesus Christ is first and foremost, but recognizing the right of soldiers to freely embrace their faith is also essential as part of spiritual support.
Conclusion
Active interaction with the leaders of military units who have influence over soldiers and maintaining contacts with chaplains from other units are effective strategies to provide comprehensive spiritual support. Failure to directly participate in military service is not an obstacle for church officials to help those in need by guiding and helping them to accept difficulties. Regardless of faith beliefs, soldiers can receive the support they need and count on getting rid of moral distress.
Bibliography
“The Covenant and Code of Ethics for Chaplains of the Armed Forces.” NCMAF. 2015. Web.
Department of the Army. Army Chaplain Corps Activities. Washington: Headquarters, 2015.
United Church of Christ. Book of Worship. Cleveland: United Church of Christ, 2020.