Great Commission Chaplaincy Project
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Liberty University *
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655
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Religion
Date
Apr 3, 2024
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docx
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Uploaded by AdmiralAlbatrossMaster906
Great Commission Chaplaincy Project
CHPL655: Chaplain Evangelism and Discipleship (B01)
March 8th, 2024
Contents
i
Introduction …………………………………………………………………………………..….1
Group characteristics …………………………………………………………
....
…………..….1
Scriptural foundation ………………………….…………………………...………………..….2
Core ministry values………………………………………..…………………………………3-5
Mission statement………………………………………………….……………………………5
Ministry plan……………………………………………………………………………………5
Team members………………………………………………….…………………………….5-8
12-month ministry calendar…………………………………………………………………8-10
12-month budget………………………………………….……………………………………10
Scope and sequence…………………………………………………………………………10-11
Tools and techniques…………………………………………….…………………...…….11-13
Verifier……………………………………………
....
…………………………………………13
Conclusion………………………………………….………………………………………13-14
Bibliography……………………………………….……………………………..…
........
……15
ii
The Great Commission urges every believer to actively promote the spread of the Word of God worldwide. Both chaplains and fellow believers engage in evangelism and discipleship, sharing the teachings and deeds of Jesus Christ with others. Chaplains, in particular, are tasked with delivering comprehensive sermons that cater to the diverse needs of people. While some specialize in specific areas—such as military chaplains attending to the spiritual needs of soldiers
and their families, or hospital chaplains providing support to the ill—our overarching goal remains to mirror the life of Jesus as depicted in the Scriptures.
1
This entails embracing a spirit of servanthood, wherein selflessness and prioritizing the needs of others are paramount. As emphasized in 1 Peter 4:10, "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms."
Group characteristics
The ministry plan focuses on providing assistance to the military community, recognizing
the multifaceted challenges faced by soldiers encompassing emotional, physical, and psychological dimensions. Chaplains are entrusted with the responsibility of providing the necessary support to soldiers, guiding them through their adversities and ensuring their well-
being.
2
Scriptural foundation
1
Andrew, odd, ed
. Military chaplaincy in contention: Chaplains, churches, and the morality of conflict
, (Ashgate Publishing, Ltd., 2013), 10.
2
Steve Keith, Watch: Theology of Discipleship (Video)
, Liberty University,
https://canvas.liberty.edu/courses/597855/pages/watch-theology-of-discipleship?module_item_id=61102721
1
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Here are some Scriptures that shall be utilized to nourish and uplift soldiers:
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Isaiah 41:10 - "Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
1 Peter 5:8-9- "Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that the family of believers throughout the world is undergoing the same kind of sufferings."
Psalm 23:4 - "Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me."
Joshua 1:9 - "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
Romans 8:31 - "What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?"
Philippians 4:13 - "I can do all things through him who strengthens me."
2 Timothy 1:7 - "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-
control."
Psalm 27:1 - "The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall, I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?"
Deuteronomy 31:6- "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."
John 14:27- "Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid."
3
Unless otherwise noted, all biblical passages referenced are in the New International Version.
2
Core ministry values
Love: The Bible teaches humanity that God's love is unconditional and sacrificial, demonstrated through the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ, who died for our sins. As recipients of this divine love, humanity indeed is called to extend love and compassion to others, especially to those who are in need.
One of the central teachings of Jesus Christ is to love one another as He has loved all (John 13:34-35). This commandment encompasses not only showing love to those who are close to us but also reaching out to those who are marginalized, oppressed, or in need of assistance. In Matthew 25:35-36, Jesus highlights the importance of caring for the hungry, thirsty, stranger, naked, sick, and imprisoned, emphasizing that whatever we do for the least of these, we do for Him.
By extending love and compassion to others, one reflects the character of God and fulfill His greatest commandments to love Him with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). In doing so, mankind participates in God's redemptive work in the world and embody the transformative power of His love.
Dedication: In serving soldiers entails a profound commitment, given the demanding nature of their work. This commitment serves as an inspiration, offering encouragement and instilling hope in soldiers that they are not alone in their struggles. It assures them that God's presence and assistance are ever-present, providing strength and comfort in difficult times. Through unwavering dedication, those who serve soldiers demonstrate a steadfast resolve to support and uplift them, fostering a sense of assurance and resilience amidst the challenges they face. This dedication becomes a beacon of hope, reminding soldiers that they are valued, 3
supported, and cared for, both by those who serve alongside them and by a higher power who watches over them.
Competence: In caring for soldiers encompasses a comprehensive understanding of military culture, expertise in addressing combat stress and trauma, proficiency in spiritual guidance and counseling, crisis intervention skills, collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth. By demonstrating competence in these areas, one can effectively meet the unique needs of soldiers and provide meaningful support throughout their military journey.
Creativity: creativity is essential when addressing the diverse challenges faced by soldiers, ranging from family issues and relationship conflicts to the loss of friends and stress related to work. Each soldier's situation is unique, requiring tailored approaches and innovative solutions.
Community: Community engagement plays a vital role in supporting soldiers' emotional well-being, fostering unity, and enhancing socialization. By actively engaging with the community, soldiers can access valuable support networks, build meaningful relationships, and contribute to the strength and cohesion of the communities they serve.
Collaboration: It is essential for chaplains to effectively meet the diverse needs of soldiers. By working collaboratively with other caregivers, chaplains can provide holistic care, facilitate coordinated care planning, share information and referrals, support mutual learning, enhance cultural competence, and promote team resilience. Together, caregivers can create a supportive and inclusive care environment that empowers soldiers to thrive physically, emotionally, spiritually, and socially.
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Mission statement
The mission is to deliver high-quality emotional, medical, and psychological care to soldiers and their families, aiming to enhance their overall quality of life.
Ministry plan
During missions, soldiers often endure suffering and pain, impacting their faith. Nevertheless, it is their faith that imbues them with the courage to believe that all will eventually be well. Christ's teachings acknowledge the inevitability of life's challenges and hardships, which
serve to prepare individuals for salvation. Throughout scripture, God is depicted as a warrior who aids the Israelites in their battles.
As a chaplain, adherence to guidelines regarding interactions with soldiers is paramount. Given the opportunity, the chaplain is committed to sharing the Word of God and providing emotional, psychological, and physical support to soldiers.
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It is during times of adversity that individuals are most receptive to welcoming Christ into their lives and confessing their sins in preparation for salvation.
The chaplain firmly believes that through witnessing to soldiers, they can be transformed into disciples of Christ. Additionally, by offering support to family members, the chaplain aspires to prompt them to reconsider their faith and become disciples who spread the teachings of Christ.
Soldiers must recognize that the challenges they face are temporary. Through Christ's sacrifice on the cross, He bore our pain and sins, offering us the opportunity for salvation. Acceptance of Christ is essential preparation for this salvation.
4
Rachel L Seddon, Edgar Jones, and Neil Greenberg
. "The role of chaplains in maintaining the psychological health of military personnel: An historical and contemporary perspective,"
Military medicine 176, no.
12 (2011): 1357.
5
The soldiers serve as a source of motivation for others, emphasizing the importance of fighting for and maintaining oral health. Enduring hardships and resisting temptations fosters spiritual growth and demonstrates obedience to God's commands. The comforting presence of God serves as a testimony to the necessity of placing trust in Him at all times.
The troops also have the opportunity to bear witness to Christ, thereby fostering the creation of disciples. Additionally, chaplains are called upon to demonstrate love and compassion to the sick, providing support and guidance as they navigate their experiences.
Military chaplaincy necessitates proficiency in providing spiritual care, which is why the writer of this paper plans to enroll in courses focusing on Clinical Pastoral Care. These classes will equip the student with the necessary competence to effectively serve soldiers. Additionally, this training will enable the writer of this paper to coordinate and collaborate with other team members more efficiently when delivering support to soldiers.
In addition to skills and knowledge, providing spiritual care as a military chaplain involves understanding and embracing one's personal identity within their denomination. To this end, the student plans to identify and fulfill the requirements outlined by his denomination to become a military chaplain. Pursuing ordination in this capacity will not only lend support and recognition from the writer’s denomination but also provide a framework for how the student is expected to witness in a pluralistic environment. This identification process will ensure alignment with his denominations beliefs and practices while serving as a chaplain in diverse military settings.
The writer of this paper looks forward to volunteering with caregiving organizations such
as veteran homes to gain insight into their routine operations. Through volunteering, the student aims to acquire practical skills that will deepen his understanding of how the needs of each 6
patient vary. This hands-on experience will also provide the student with the courage to compassionately support patients and their families during challenging times, particularly when facing terminal illness.
Moreover, volunteering will enable the writer of this paper to establish valuable networks
within the caregiving community and gain a clearer understanding of the requirements of the field. The student recognizes that through practice, he will develop the crucial skills of balancing
care for others with self-care, ensuring that he can provide effective support while maintaining his own well-being.
Drawing from personal experience as a soldier, the student has identified that the following barriers to ministry can manifest in various forms:
Insufficient Knowledge: A lack of adequate understanding or expertise in the field of ministry can hinder effective service delivery. This may include limited knowledge of counseling
techniques, religious practices, or cultural sensitivities relevant to the target population.
Geographic Constraints: Restrictions and boundaries imposed by the geographical location of missions can pose significant challenges. These limitations may include logistical barriers, political instability, or cultural barriers that impede access to communities in need.
Personal Spiritual Awareness and Pluralism: Inadequate personal spiritual awareness and a lack of appreciation for religious pluralism can also serve as barriers to effective ministry. Without a deep understanding of one's own faith tradition and respect for diverse religious beliefs, it may be challenging to connect with and serve individuals from different religious backgrounds.
5
5
Willoughby Deming, and Willoughby Deming,
Understanding the Religions of the World: An Introduction, (John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated, 2015), 4
7
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Addressing these barriers requires a commitment to ongoing learning, cultural humility, and a willingness to engage with diverse perspectives. By expanding one's knowledge base, fostering cultural competence, and cultivating personal spiritual awareness, individuals can overcome these obstacles and effectively engage in meaningful ministry.
6
Team members
The spiritual team will encompass the chapel staff, soldiers, their families, and the dedicated post’s (base) resources who provide care to them. Through their unwavering dedication, they embody the divine command to care for the needy, as outlined in scripture. In addition to ministering to soldiers, the writer of this paper aspires to positively impact the lives of his team members. Through witnessing to soldiers, the student hopes to inspire and encourage the team, fostering spiritual growth and deepening their commitment to serving others. Together,
they will work collaboratively to provide holistic care and support, guided by our shared faith and dedication to fulfilling God's commandments.
12-month ministry calendar
January: it is essential to set duties and highlight days off on the calendar to ensure efficient planning and organization. By clearly outlining responsibilities and scheduling days off in advance, individuals can effectively manage their time and maintain a healthy work-life balance. This proactive approach promotes productivity, reduces stress, and fosters a positive work environment. Additionally, highlighting days off allows for better coordination among team members and ensures that essential tasks are covered even during periods of absence. 6
Stacey, Gutkowski and George Wilkes
, "Changing chaplaincy: A contribution to debate over the roles of US and British military chaplains in Afghanistan,"
Religion, State & Society 39, no. 1 (2011): 111-124.
8
Overall, setting duties and marking days off on the calendar in January lays the groundwork for a
successful and well-balanced month.
February: the focus is on spreading love by extending compassion and sharing gifts, as it is the month dedicated to celebrating love.
March: As spring begins, this month will be dedicated to pause and reflect on personal faith.
April: it's essential to plan for the celebration of Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Additionally, engaging with families to demonstrate ongoing support and presence during all times is crucial.
May: this month is crucial to prioritize attending Holy Eucharist and abstain from unnecessary work to dedicate time to spiritual reflection and worship.
June: decorate with flowers and honor mothers to celebrate the fullness of life associated with this month.
July: plan visits to picnic sites to enjoy the outdoors and foster camaraderie among soldiers and their families.
August: prioritize providing for needy children, ensuring they have the support and resources they need for their well-being.
September: plan a tribute to commemorate the events of 9/11 and honor the lives lost, as well as the resilience and unity of the nation in the face of adversity.
October: dedicate time to meditation and introspection to connect with the inner self and gain a deeper understanding of the calling to caregiving.
November: make preparations for a community Thanksgiving dinner, bringing together members of the community to share in gratitude and fellowship.
9
December: Adorn the surroundings with festive decorations to celebrate Christmas and organize a joyful party to commemorate the holiday season with friends, family, and fellow soldiers. This initiative is particularly important for soldiers who are stationed alone and may not
have family nearby, as it helps ensure they do not feel isolated or depressed during the holidays. By fostering a sense of community and camaraderie, we aim to combat depression and reduce the risk of suicides among soldiers during this time of year.
12-month budget
It is estimated that between $900 to $1,100 per month will be allocated for meeting the needs of soldiers and their families within the ministry. This budget will be flexible to accommodate any additional expenses that may arise to ensure that all essential needs are adequately addressed. By maintaining this flexibility, the ministry can adapt to changing circumstances and provide necessary support and assistance as required.
Scope and sequence
The writer of this paper is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity in Chaplaincy with the goal of graduation. Concurrently, they serve as an active-duty soldier stationed at Fort Greely as a Military Police.
During their nonduty days, the author occasionally volunteers with their family in Fort Greely chapel activities. This involvement serves a dual purpose: to promote spiritual growth in the community and to gain personal insight into how they can positively impact soldiers.
Furthermore, the author recognizes the importance of self-care to mitigate the risk of experiencing PTSD. They believe that pursuing a Ph.D. in counseling will enhance their ability to serve effectively. They plan to enroll in this course while continuing their military service as a chaplain.
10
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Additionally, the author hopes to undergo clinical training to better assist the wounded. They recognize that there are cases where their assistance can be invaluable. Acquiring these skills will not only enable them to interact confidently with the wounded but also to serve others with compassion and competence.
Tools and techniques
Listening
: This act plays a crucial role in providing support to soldiers, offering them a safe space to express their challenges without fear of judgment or interference. By actively listening, I can help soldiers alleviate their pain and reduce stress by simply being present and attentive to their concerns. Moreover, attentive listening enables me to identify the nature of the soldiers' problems, allowing me to provide appropriate support and guidance while offering a compassionate shoulder to lean on during difficult times.
Writing
: As a military chaplain, writing becomes a vital means of communication, particularly when soldiers require messages to be sent to their families and loved ones. Whether conveying updates, words of encouragement, or expressions of love and support, writing allows me to bridge the gap between soldiers and their families, providing reassurance and connection during times of separation.
Additionally, writing plays a significant role in offering condolences to families who have lost their loved ones on the battlefield. Crafting heartfelt messages of sympathy and solidarity can provide solace and comfort to grieving families, acknowledging their loss and honoring the sacrifice made by their loved one in service to their country.
In both instances, writing serves as a powerful tool for maintaining connections, fostering
emotional support, and offering consolation during challenging circumstances in military life.
11
Problem-solving
: This is an essential skill for a military chaplain, as it enables me to understand complex situations and provide soldiers with appropriate advice and support. By employing critical thinking and analysis, I can assess the nuances of a problem, consider various perspectives, and identify potential solutions.
Effective problem-solving involves active listening, empathy, and collaboration with the soldier to fully grasp their concerns and needs. Cross-cultural communication
: This is paramount in the military, given its diverse and pluralistic nature. Possessing adequate knowledge of various cultures is essential for fostering understanding, respect, and trust among soldiers from different backgrounds.
7
By honing cross-cultural communication skills, one can effectively navigate cultural differences, avoid misunderstandings, and build meaningful connections with soldiers. This involves actively listening to their perspectives, demonstrating empathy, and adapting communication styles to suit cultural norms and preferences.
8
Counseling
: A indispensable skill in addressing the psychological challenges faced by soldiers in the military. These skills enable me to provide effective support and guidance, helping
soldiers navigate through various emotional and psychological issues they may encounter during their service.
Through counseling, one can offer a safe and confidential space for soldiers to express their concerns, fears, and struggles. By actively listening, empathizing, and validating their experiences, the student can help soldiers gain insight into their emotions and behaviors, as well as develop coping strategies to manage stress, trauma, and other psychological difficulties.
7
Lindsay B. Carey, Mark A. Willis, Lillian Krikheli, and Annette O’Brien
, "Religion, health and confidentiality: An exploratory review of the role of chaplains,"
Journal of religion and health 54, no. 2 (2015): 676.
8
Robert Wuthnow, America and the Challenges of Religious Diversity
, (Princeton University Press, 2007), 231
12
Verifier
By the time soldiers return home after their mission, the author of this paper hopes that they will experience a sense of peace and relief from the pain and stress associated with their service. The student aspires for them to find solace and comfort in their faith, ultimately accepting Christ as their savior and protector.
The author’s measure of success lies not only in the tangible outcomes of his efforts but also in the transformative impact on individual lives. If he is able to change just one soul, guiding them to realize the significance of giving glory to God, he would consider his mission fulfilled. The writer through his services, aims to inspire others to embrace faith, find healing, and experience the profound joy that comes from a relationship with the Lord.
Conclusion
In conclusion, serving in the military presents numerous challenges that demand strength on multiple fronts—physical, emotional, psychological, and spiritual. To navigate these challenges effectively, soldiers must draw upon all facets of their resilience. In the role of serving soldiers, it is the student’s aim to provide them with comfort and assurance, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles. By offering support across these various dimensions of strength, the writer of this paper hopes to empower soldiers to overcome obstacles
and find renewed courage to face the rigors of military service. In a similar vein, let us reflect on the wisdom of Psalm 46:1-2: "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, one will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea." These verses serve as a steadfast reminder that God is the source of refuge and inner strength, offering mankind unwavering support in times of 13
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adversity. With this assurance, one can face challenges with resilience and extend comfort and support to others in their moments of need.
As we press on, let us stand firm in our dedication to uplifting our soldiers, nurturing their spirits, and cultivating their spiritual and communal development. May our endeavors persistently yield blessings, offering healing, hope, and rejuvenation to all those we accompany on this journey.
In conclusion, let us express gratitude for the privilege to serve and to act as conduits of God's boundless love and mercy in the lives of others. May we persevere in our faith journey, relying on God's direction and provision, as we endeavor to be catalysts of change and unity in our world.
Bibliography
Andrew, odd, ed. Military chaplaincy in contention: Chaplains, churches, and the morality of conflict
, (Ashgate Publishing, Ltd., 2013), 10.
Lindsay B. Carey, Mark A. Willis, Lillian Krikheli, and Annette O’Brien, "Religion, health and confidentiality: An exploratory review of the role of chaplains,"
Journal of religion and health 54, no. 2 (2015): 676.
14
Rachel L. Seddon, Edgar Jones, and Neil Greenberg
. "The role of chaplains in maintaining the psychological health of military personnel: An historical and contemporary perspective,"
Military medicine 176, no. 12 (2011): 1357.
Robert Wuthnow, America and the Challenges of Religious Diversity
, (Princeton University Press, 2007), 231
Stacey, Gutkowski and George Wilkes, "Changing chaplaincy: A contribution to debate over the
roles of US and British military chaplains in Afghanistan,"
Religion, State & Society 39, no. 1 (2011): 111-124.
Steve Keith, Watch: Theology of Discipleship (Video)
, Liberty University,
https://canvas.liberty.edu/courses/597855/pages/watch-theology-of-discipleship?
module_item_id=61102721
Unless otherwise noted, all biblical passages referenced are in the New International Version.
Willoughby Deming, and Willoughby Deming, Understanding the Religions of the World:
An Introduction, (John Wiley & Sons, Incorporated, 2015), 4
15