Chaplain Engagement: “We take care of the Navy's most important asset- its people.”

Chaplains consider it a sacred duty to support people when they are in turmoil as well as when they are doing well,” said Capt. Guy Lee, Naval District Washington’s Chaplain. “Chaplains take care of the Navy's most important asset- its people."
By: Naval District Washington Public Affairs
 
March 7, 2011 - PRLog -- It may appear that during times of great chaos, war and uncertainty, the role of military chaplains is highlighted and chaplains become more visible. The reality is: the military chaplaincy is always there to provide support, care and opportunities for worship.

“Chaplains consider it a sacred duty to support people when they are in turmoil as well as when they are doing well,” said Capt. Guy Lee, Naval District Washington’s Regional Chaplain. “Chaplains and Religious Program Specialists (RPs) take care of the Navy's most important asset- its people.”

Since July 29, 1775 when it was established by the Continental Congress, the military chaplaincy has been in the business of “taking care” of people. Throughout history, military chaplains have not only served their country, but have also served as a conduit for the expression of faith in a pluralistic society.

“Chaplains in particular must feel comfortable wearing at least a couple of different hats,” said Lee. “They are called to be clergy, so they are committed to serving God as religious leaders from their respective faith groups.  But they are also Navy officers who must understand the unique needs of the military,” he said.

Though military chaplains are most often seen officiating ceremonies, ministering to congregations and volunteering, the role of the chaplain is both complex and multifaceted.

“Chaplains and RPs assist commanders in promoting mission-readiness among military personnel and their families,” Lee said. “While there are several organizations within the Department of the Navy that are concerned about personal readiness, chaplains and RPs are unique because their focus is on promoting spiritual, moral, and ethical maturity in the people we serve.”

How does a limited number of military chaplains deal with a large community boasting varied and diverse faith denominations?

“Americans have different beliefs about what is ultimately true,” Lee said. “The Navy doesn't have its own theology or view about religion, instead, it says that everyone has the right worship according to their own conscience and it also means that people have the right not to worship at all,” he said.

According to Lee, chaplains accommodate people's religious expression by providing worship services to people who are of the same faith, while at the same time facilitating the needs of those who are of a different faith.  

“I'm ordained with a Protestant denomination, so I can't provide services to a Jewish Sailor.  But I can help that Sailor find an opportunity to worship at a local synagogue,” said Lee.

Imparting pastoral care is another way that chaplains and RPs support the communities they serve.

“Pastoral care is the support that chaplains render to service members and their families within the institution of the Navy.  It isn't necessarily religious in nature.  In fact, it is offered to all members and their families, even if they have no religious preference,” said Lee. “We do this walking the deck-plates, offering confidential counseling, and by offering programs.”

One might imagine that constantly providing care and support to others might weigh heavily on the members of the Chaplain Corps. Lee said faith is what undergirds military chaplains and enables them to execute their responsibilities.

“Each chaplain relies on gaining strength and encouragement from their own faith tradition,” he said.   “Without a faith that is vibrant and growing, a chaplain will wilt under the pressure of caring for people.”


Still he maintains that the job of a chaplain in the National Capital Region can be intense.  

“Our chaplains and RPs can find themselves at one moment supporting a highly visible funeral at Arlington National Cemetery, participating in a ceremony with the Chief of Naval Operations, or the Commandant of the Marine Corps, or coordinating interagency religious support, and at the next counseling a Sailor with a marital issue, or preparing to baptize a baby,” Lee said.  “Each day our chaplains and RPs are there to serve.”

If you would like to contact the Naval District Washington Chaplain’s office the phone numbers are as follows:

Regional Chaplains Office (202) 433-2275

Naval Support Activity Washington Chaplain's Office (202) 433-2058

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Naval District Washington is the regional provider of common operating support to Naval installations within a 100-mile radius of the Pentagon.
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Source:Naval District Washington Public Affairs
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