‘For God and Country: Considering the Call to Military Chaplaincy’ is a revised edition that offers a comprehensive exploration of the unique vocation of military chaplaincy. This book is particularly valuable for individuals who feel called to serve in the military as chaplains, providing insights from a Christian perspective on the significance of this calling.
The author emphasizes that the vocation of military chaplaincy is not only a noble pursuit but also a divine calling from God. The book investigates the journey of fifteen seminary students, primarily from Columbia International University and Liberty University Baptist Theological Seminary, as they navigate their discernment process regarding military chaplaincy.
To aid these students in their exploration, a specialized three-session workshop was developed. This workshop enabled participants to clarify and articulate their calling to military chaplaincy. It also provided a platform for the workshop facilitator, who plays a crucial role in recruiting military chaplains, to analyze the common factors and vocational motivations that resonate with these aspiring chaplains.
This book delves into the call of military chaplaincy as a profound act of ministry. It discusses the initial call from God, the confirmation from the church community, and the personal commitment of the individual responding to God’s call – echoing the powerful words of Isaiah 6:8b, “Here am I, send me.” The author views military chaplains as extensions of Christ’s ministry, dedicated to serving all people, and examines various Biblical texts that underpin the principles of military chaplaincy, thus providing a solid Biblical foundation for this vocation.
The outcomes of this research project are particularly beneficial for military chaplain recruiters, vocational counselors, and denominational endorsers. It serves as a guide for anyone contemplating military chaplaincy as a viable career path.
One of the key highlights of this revised edition is the inclusion of over 55 new pages in an appendix that features more than 300 unique resources and websites related to various fields of professional chaplaincy. The major areas covered in this resource section include:
Major Functional Areas of Chaplaincy |
Military Chaplaincy |
Healthcare Chaplaincy |
Correctional Chaplaincy |
Corporate Chaplaincy |
Public Safety Chaplaincy |
Sports and Recreational Chaplaincy |
Disaster Relief Chaplaincy |
Educational Chaplaincy |
Community Chaplaincy |
Transportation, Travel, and Tourism Chaplaincy |
The appendix also provides dedicated sections for resources that address critical aspects of chaplaincy, such as:
- Clinical Pastoral Education Programs
- Choosing a Degree Program in Chaplaincy
- Sources of Information for Student Financial Aid
- Faith Group and Denominational Ecclesiastical Endorsers for Chaplaincy
- Continuing Education for Chaplains
- Chaplaincy Research and Professional Development Resources
- North American Professional Chaplaincy, Counseling, and Pastoral Care Organizations
- International Chaplaincy, Counseling, and Pastoral Care Organizations
- Chaplain Ministry with Military Personnel and War Veterans
- Free Resources for Military Chaplains
In conclusion, ‘For God and Country: Considering the Call to Military Chaplaincy’ serves as an essential guide for those contemplating a career in military chaplaincy. With its rich insights, practical resources, and strong Biblical foundation, this book is a must-read for aspiring military chaplains and those involved in supporting their journey.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.