Thoughtful Reflections on Faith and Life
When I was a kid I always wanted to be an army cadet. Unfortunately I never had the courage to join. I did end up joining the army reserves as an adult. My son Justus has been interested in the army ever since I joined the army. He has been counting down the months until … Read More “Good News: Our Cadet!” »
I have had quite a number of pastors talk to me about a desire to become military chaplains. I am a chaplain (or padre) in the army reserves and I love it. It is one of the most rewarding things that I do. I am always happy to talk to people who are interested in … Read More “Advice for Potential Young Military Chaplains” »
As I think about my good news this week, I think of an event that took place yesterday. I belong to an army reserve united called the Lorne Scots. Yesterday we had our training day and soldier’s Christmas dinner. Although it was a good day of training and of enjoying a good meal, it was … Read More “A Good Part of My Life” »
My good news for this week (really the last two weeks) is that I am now a qualified military chaplain. While I completed my BMOQ (Basic Military Officer’s Qualification) a couple of years ago, on Friday I graduated from my BOQ (Basic Occupational Qualification). The first course was to train me to be an officer … Read More “Basically I am Qualified For My Occupation” »
When I tell people that I am a military chaplain, there is one concern that is frequently bought up. Am I forced to compromise my Christian faith? I would respond with an emphatic “no” and yet when I describe my duties, some might interpret it as a “yes.” I am only speaking about military chaplaincy … Read More “On Being a Christian Chaplain in a Non-Christian Military” »
One of the most rewarding parts of my life has been my role as a military chaplain (padre). I hear from pastors who are considering joining the army but are not sure if they should. I would like to share why I think it is a good idea. For clarification, I can only speak from my … Read More “7 Reasons Why Pastors Should Consider Military Chaplaincy” »
Before I go into this topic I should share two things: 1) I am a Christian, and 2) I am a military chaplain. Based on this you may be able to guess my answer to the above question. Having said that, I have been challenged on this both directly by friends and indirectly in books. … Read More “Should Christians Serve as Military Chaplains?” »
I have read in some pacifist publications that it is impossible for a Christian to serve in the military. I’m not sure that is a useful way of phrasing it. I know that I am a Christian and I proudly wear an army uniform in my role as a chaplain in the Canadian Forces. I … Read More “Can Christians Serve in the Military?” »
