A Chaplain Prepares for Deployment

As we complete the first week of January, I find myself utterly amazed at all of the happenings. We have settled into a training facility that most of us have never seen before. We figured out quickly how to feed more than 3000 troops. We established offices and residences. Soldiers have also completed medical, administrative, and supply procedures, and begun various training exercises. I believe a lot of things could have gone wrong by now. But safety has become a priority; and leaders have been working together to effectively resolve problems.

I think about my own preparation over the last several months, and recall that it seemed to monopolize my time. I could never work through all of the items on my “to do” list. By now, I can see that I was probably over-doing it. I made my own work more difficult because of personal expectations that were not always essential. At times, I realize that I have been trying to get control when I should have been thinking “manageability” instead.

On this Tuesday morning, I am just catching my breath for a few minutes to look at what my own staff has accomplished. We’ve moved into two chapels, and held four worship services for approximately 170 soldiers. Unfortunately, the Catholic services are not available until this Saturday. When that gets worked out, we should be serving at least 220 soldiers or more every week. While I may have my own selfish reasons for wanting to see more participation here, I believe this should be our brigade’s highest priority.

We certainly do miss our local communities and our families. May God protect and preserve us as those of you at home serve in spirit with us to accomplish this mission.

Blessings!