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Serving Those Who Serve - Anchored in Service: Navigating Faith and Duty

Photo by Dan Kb on Unsplash

Greetings, dear readers! Today, I invite you to join me on a reflective journey into the heart of my Coast Guard Aux Chaplain role. As I navigate the waters of faith and duty, each wave brings a new challenge and an opportunity to provide crucial support to those who dedicate their lives to serving others.

The Call to Serve

Two decades ago, when I first felt the call to chaplaincy, I had no idea of the remarkable journey that awaited me. The intersection of faith and duty became a guiding compass, steering me through uncharted waters. The decision to serve as a chaplain was not just a professional choice; it was a calling to be a beacon of hope in the vast sea of challenges faced by the brave men and women of the armed services.

As an Auxiliary Chaplain Support (ACS) Chaplain, I help supplement and support Navy Chaplains serving with the Coast Guard (CG) by expanding Religious Ministry within the Coast Guard to better meet the needs of Coast Guard members and their families. I serve under the direct supervision of my designated CG Chaplain and must coordinate and report all my Religious Ministry support to that CG Chaplain. CG Chaplains (officers of the U.S. Navy Chaplain Corps assigned to the Coast Guard) provide Religious Ministry to CG members. They play a vital role in support of the overall mission execution of the CG. Due to the limited number of CG Chaplains, they may be prevented or delayed in the timely response to Religious Ministry requirements.

The Unique Challenges

Chaplaincy within the Coast Guard Auxiliary comes with its unique set of challenges. Unlike traditional chaplaincy roles, our ministry extends to the maritime environment, where the sea's ebb and flow mirror the unpredictable nature of our duties. From offering spiritual guidance before and after search and rescue operations to providing peace in the aftermath of natural disasters, every day presents a new opportunity to make a meaningful impact.

Building Bridges of Support

One of the most fulfilling aspects of being an ACS Chaplain is building bridges of support between faith and service. Our mission goes beyond traditional boundaries, encompassing not only the individuals who wear the uniform but also their families and the broader Coast Guard community. It's about creating a network of care that extends from the shore to the open sea, fostering a sense of unity and resilience.

Stories from the Helm

Let me share a glimpse into my experiences as I stand alongside the courageous men and women serving in the Coast Guard. From conducting worship services on the deck of a cutter or change of command ceremonies to offering a listening ear in the quiet moments before a mission, each interaction is a testament to the power of chaplaincy in the maritime setting.

As we walk through different aspects of the ACS Chaplain role, I hope to shed light on the unique aspects of being "Anchored in Service." We will explore the depths of faith, the challenges of duty, and the rewarding journey of providing support in the vast and sometimes turbulent sea of the Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Stay tuned for more insights into the chaplaincy that keeps us anchored in service.

Fair winds and following seas.

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