Peace of Christ to you! As you are reading this, I am in the midst of learning, training, and sweating at Maxwell Air Force Base for Officer Training School. I can assure you that for as uncomfortable as this experience is — I mean really, who thought putting a school in Alabama in summer would be enjoyable? — it will all be well worth it! Getting the opportunity to serve in the military and still be a seminarian for the Diocese of Cleveland is such a blessing indeed!
The most interesting aspect of this training so far would be the counterintuitive nature of chaplain training. You would think it would involve a significant amount of time for personal prayer. Perhaps that would also include some less strenuous exercising and general training than a regular officer trainee would receive. And yet, a majority of my time is spent on doctrine, field exercises, intensive classes that require significant studying, and a complex understanding of the various levels and structures of the Air Force. In fact, it often feels like I’m training to be a bureaucrat instead of a chaplain.
Although not intentional, there is something to be gained in this experience. There is an idealized version of practicing and ministering the faith perhaps in my own head that I would be good to part with. The reality of working within the military means there are constraints of time, availability, and access to when and whom I can serve as a chaplain’s assistant. I have orders to follow, after all.
If you are considering some new growth in your spiritual life, or contemplating joining a new ministry or getting more involved at the parish — take your pick, all great ideas! — be prepared! Be energetic and excited, but anticipate the struggles, difficulties, and the unexpected surprises. Just because you’re doing something good for yourself and the Church doesn’t mean it will be easy!
