The picture above is five of the eight ships that I am privileged to be called “CHAPS.” When they are “nested” together like this, it makes for effective ministry! Despite the continual restrictions due to COVID-19, the chaplain ministry is still thriving. Recently, I was granted a waiver to provide chaplain ministry to a quarantined crew. They were not allowed to break quarantine due to the need to maintain mission readiness. However, I was able to go and provide pastoral care, counseling, and two Sunrise Services onboard the ship. This was the first service that was held in the helicopter hanger bay, the biggest covered area on the ship. A sound system was hooked up and I was able to preach. Mid-way through the sermon, half of the crew were standing within the area listening to the Word of God! I had several comment on how the message blessed them, and one sailor inquired about salvation. Though he did not come to Christ, I believe a seed was planted. Praise be to God!
My role as an advisor has grown to the multitude of commands that I represent as the sole chaplain. This advisement has become critical as we are in unprecedented times with the continual COVID-19 restrictions and mitigations. I feel as though my advisement is being received as I continue to advocate for the holistic health of our sailors. Not only the physical, but the mental, emotional, relational, and spiritual health of each person. Individual counseling takes up the bulk of my ministry. I have been grateful for many couples seeking pre-marital and marital counseling. The goal is to give these men and women a proper, biblical model of God’s role for the husband and wife. As marriages are restored and strengthened, it allows for an increase in overall mission readiness for our military members.
Will you please join me in prayer that the COVID-19 restrictions will end for our military? The added strain it is placing on our sailors is astronomical. There has been such an increase in suicidal ideations and attempts, DUIs, marital conflicts, and operational stress.
Walking By Faith 