Should I train to become an Army Chaplain?

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 12:44:21 -0400

I have 10 years, (4 active, 6 reserve); currently drilling in the XO slot at a CBRN BN. Married, two kids, full-time student, 3rd year in ROTC, Wife has 8 yrs (4 active, 4 reserve), also a full-time student. I am currently working on my BA in Biblical and Theological Studies. Never got my chevrons because I was lazy and bitter. I like to think I have changed that in the past few years.

I like the Army. I buy into our ideals as an organization and the ADRPs that build us up as a force of change in the country and the rest of the world (even thought it sure as hell doesn't always feel like it). I like the people. I like the benefits. I love serving. But I'm no tough guy. I'll ruck my weight around and keep my mouth shut about how cold, wet, and hungry I am, but I"m no ranger. Doesn't mean I'm not a good leader. Doesn't mean I don't like doing Army crap.

So that's my context, here is the details of what I am asking:
I am primarily interested in Logistics and MI for the rest of my career. I think my degree might transfer well into those fields for various reasons. Though, studying theology makes me happy. I think we all make choices trying to balance what we think is useful and purposeful in the big picture of the Army and life in general, and doing what actually makes us happy. I have opinions on why I think Chaplaincy isn't a good fit for me, but bottom line is I need questions answered by someone with experience. Please help!

I like the idea of getting my MA earlier rather than later. I like Hebrew, I want to continue my studies in the ancient language (again, sooner rather than later). I like looking out for the wellfare of others. Had a bit of experience in this from the perspective of a 68W, which I was in the reserves. I did more than just ensure the medical wellfare of troops. I think this attitude can translate into the Chaplaincy.

However, I do not like the idea of being a non-combatant nor I am fond of the disconnection from the unit that I will have as Chaplain. That is to say, training and operations in general.

If anyone can offer insight, recommend some reading material, or offer their time for further discussion it would be much appreciated. I have about a year before I need to make my decision.

Response by CW5 Jack Cardwell made Mar 29 at 2018 12:54 PM

CW5 Jack Cardwell — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 12:54:07 -0400

Follow your heart. Thanks for sharing

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Mar 29 at 2018 1:14 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 13:14:50 -0400

1LT Private RallyPoint Member: By all means! (That is my humble opinion.)

Response by LCDR Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2018 1:43 PM

LCDR Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 13:43:58 -0400

I understand the doubts about Chaplaincy. I had those myself when I was considering this route. But through prayer and advice from others, the doubts fell away and here I am (albeit in the Navy and no longer the Army). One of the best pieces of advice I got about Chaplaincy, and one that I will pass along here, was this: "If you can see yourself doing anything else in the military other than being a Chaplain, then that's what you should do." Chaplaincy should not be a fall back option. Chaplaincy is a calling. It shouldn't be something that we decide to do on our own.

Hope that helps. If you have any other questions feel free to contact me directly.

Blessings

Response by COL Private RallyPoint Member made Mar 29 at 2018 4:31 PM

COL Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 16:31:52 -0400

That would be a great service to our guys. Really pray about it. Bless you and good luck.

Response by CH (CPT) Heather Davis made Mar 29 at 2018 5:34 PM

CH (CPT) Heather Davis — Thu, 29 Mar 2018 17:34:08 -0400

Soldiers need an honest, caring, compassionate Chaplain. I was prior enlisted for 22 years as a E6 and became a CW2 before I crossed over to the Chaplain Corps. It's a calling to be the light in the midst of the storm. Soldiers of God!

Response by SPC Mary Mcpherson made Apr 3 at 2018 9:32 AM

SPC Mary Mcpherson — Tue, 03 Apr 2018 09:32:45 -0400

Pray and go with what god tells you

Response by CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 20 at 2018 1:04 PM

CH (CPT) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 20 Aug 2018 13:04:16 -0400

In my experience, how much you are involved in training and ops depends on you (as the chaplain) and the commander. Circulating among the soldiers and not being the chaplain that sits in his (or her) office all of the time and waiting for soldiers to come to them makes a difference.