Catholic Military Life
CATHOLIC MILITARY LIFE is a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS). The AMS was established as an independent archdiocese by Pope Saint John Paul II in 1985 as the only Catholic jurisdiction responsible for endorsing and granting faculties for priests to serve as chaplains in the U.S. military and VA Medical Centers. AMS-endorsed priests serve at more than 220 U.S. military installations in 29 countries, making the AMS the nation's only global archdiocese. AMS-endorsed chaplains also serve at 153 VA Medical Centers throughout the U.S. The AMS service population also includes American Catholic civilians working for the federal government in 134 countries, but currently, due to limited resources, the AMS cannot adequately serve this population. Worldwide, an estimated 1.8 million Catholics depend on the AMS to meet their spiritual and sacramental needs. For more information on the Archdiocese for the Military Services, visit www.milarch.org, the only official website for Catholics in the U.S. Military. For information on the Cause of Father Vincent Capodanno, MM, visit www.capodannoguild.org.Zackary-Little-on-Team-St-Paul
Meet one of the newest members of Team Saint Paul. Mr. Zackary Little is an eight-year veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps who will accompany servicemen and women on their journey of faith at Camp Lejeune, along with his wife Annie and their four children.
Published on: September 9, 2025Jennifer Barton on Family Life in USAF_1
Ms. Jennifer Barton, an award-winning Catholic journalist, U.S. Air Force Veteran, and mother of six, explores faith in new romance novel now seeking a publisher.
Published on: August 28, 2025Father Daniel Mode on Vietnam War Hero Father Vincent Capodanno
Father Daniel L. Mode, CH, CPT, USN, biographer of Vietnam War hero Father Vincent R. Capodanno, reflects on how the slain U.S. Navy chaplain's real-life story serves as an example to all Christians.
Published on: August 26, 2025Tara McMullen on The Home Front Devotional
In this episode, Catholic author Tara McMullen, wife of a U.S. Air Force fighter pilot, reflects on how her new book, The Home Front Devotional, is an essential spiritual companion for military families.
Published on: July 28, 2025Victoria Selkirk on Consecrated Virginity
Lieutenant Commander Victoria Selkirk serves not only as a dietician in the U.S. Navy but also a consecrated virgin in the Catholic Church. In this episode she shares her remarkable story.
Published on: July 23, 2025Father Tom Gibbons on Fighting Spirit
The inspiring story of Korean War hero, the Venerable Father Emil Kapaun, stands front and center in a new documentary film from Paulist Productions, Fighting Spirit: A Combat Chaplain's Journey. From Los Angeles Executive Co-Porducer Father Tom Gibbons, C.S.P., joins us for a preview.
Published on: June 20, 2025Father Erin Donlon on His Priestly Ordination
What are the days and hours of anticipation like for a soon-to-be new priest awaiting ordination? Father Erin Donlon, ordained May 31, shares his story.
Published on: June 13, 2025Sister Joanna Okereke on Stella Maris
Thursday, May 22, is the National Day of Prayer and Remembrance for Mariners and People of the Sea including U.S. Sailors, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen. In this episode of Catholic Military Life, we learn more from Sister Joanna Okereke, HHCJ, National Director of Stella Maris, the maritime apostolate of the Catholic Church.
Published on: May 21, 2025Sompaul Vorapanich on Warriors to Lourdes 2025
In this episode, retired U.S. Army Special Forces First Sergeant Sompaul Vorapanich joins us by phone from Lourdes, France where he is on pilgrimage with the Warriors to Lourdes.
Published on: May 21, 2025Lt. Gen.Christopher Burne, USAF (Ret.) on Memorial Mass
Lt. Gen. Christopher Burne, USAF (Ret.), shares plans for, and explores the meaning of, the 31st Annual Memorial Mass to be celebrated by Archbishop Broglio on Sunday, May 18, at 4:30 p.m. (ET) in the Upper Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, 4th Street and Michigan Avenue NE, Washington, DC.
Published on: April 16, 2025Meet Auxiliary Bishop Gregg Caggianelli
Meet Auxiliary Bishop-Elect Gregg M. Caggianelli whose episcopal ordination will take place on May 9 at Saint Vincent de Paul Seminary in Boynton Beach, FL.
Published on: April 14, 2025Madeline Stockman on Reach More Coaching
In this episode Madeline Stockman, Coordinator for Missionary Discipleship Formation, shares personal adventures accompanying U.S. Military servicemen and women on their journeys of faith through the Reach More movement.
Published on: March 18, 2025Ray Moreau on Catholic Faith Practice in U.S. Military_2
Catholic Deacon Ray Moreau, Maj USAF (Ret.), reflects on his commitment of service to God and Country.
Published on: March 14, 2025Father Stephen Wong on Late Vocation
Father Stephen Wong traces his unlikely journey from Jamaican emigrant, to U.S. Army counter-intelligence officer, to Catholic priest ordained at 62 following a 40-year military career.
Published on: February 19, 2025Meet Vocations Director Father Paul-Anthony Halladay
Newly appointed AMS Vocations Director Father Paul-Anthony Halladay, CH (MAJ), USA (Ret.), shares his vision for accompanying more young men to priesthood and military chaplaincy.
Published on: February 12, 2025Col. Suzy Streeter, USAF (Ret.) on Spiritual Mentoring in Military
Col. Suzy Streeter, USAF (Ret.), on a new apostolate for spiritual mentoring linking older military personnel with younger personnel in the U.S. Military.
Published on: January 27, 2025Father Thomas J. Woodhouse on Late Vocation
Father Thomas J. Woodhouse shares his journey from aviation supply officer in the U.S. Marine Corps to Catholic priest of the Diocese of Providence, R.I. His prosperous career as a pilot in the aerospace defense industry was interrupted by God's call, leading to his ordination at the ripe age of 56.
Published on: January 20, 2025Meet AMS Chancellor Col. Anita Raines, USA (Ret.)
In this episode retired U.S. Army Colonel Anita Raines shares thoughts on her new role as Chancellor of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.
Published on: December 9, 2024Noah Mize & Peter Bockrath on Team St. Paul
In this episode Noah Mize and Peter Bockrath tell how they became the first male members of Team St. Paul, assigned to Fort Campbell in Kentucky.
Published on: December 4, 2024Kevin Stacy on Service as Missionary Discipleship Trainer
In this episode retired U.S. Army Staff Sergeant Kevin Stacy shares his experiences serving as a Missionary Discipleship Trainer, based in Oklahoma, for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.
Published on: November 19, 2024Gordon Hayward on Becoming Catholic
Retired NBA star Gordon Hayward shares how he decided to become Catholic after 14 years in professional basketball.
Published on: November 13, 2024Juliana Gahr On Team Saint Paul
Meet Juliana Gahr, a new member of Team Saint Paul. In this episode she traces her journey from college graduate to spiritual companion of those serving on active duty in the U.S. Air Force.
Published on: October 23, 2024Caroline McDermott & Regina Fontana On Team Saint Paul At Fort Campbell
In this episode Team Saint Paul members Caroline McDermott and Ms. Regina Fontana give witness to their Catholic faith encounters over the past year with soldiers at Fort Campbell.
Published on: October 16, 2024Admiral William J. Fallon On Pilgrimage For The Sea Services
In this episode retired Four-Star Admiral William J. Fallon invites all to go on pilgrimage--the Pilgrimage for the Sea Services on Oct. 6 at the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton in Emmitsburg, MD. Listen for details.
Published on: September 25, 2024Jurate Reventas Shares First-Year Adventures on Team Saint Paul
In this edition, Ms. Jurate Reventas shares her first-year adventures as a member of Team Saint Paul at Travis Air Force Base in California.
Published on: September 18, 2024Sister Miriam Christe
Sister Miriam Christe went from a career in the U.S. Air Force to a vocation in religious life. In this episode, she shares her remarkable story.
Published on: August 23, 2024Admiral P. Stephen Stanley On Father Capodanno Mas
In this episode retired Vice-Admiral P. Stephen Stanley, Chairman of the Father Vincent Capdanno Guild, provides an update on Father Capodanno's Cause for Canonization and talks about the upcoming Memorial Mass for his repose.
Published on: August 20, 2024Patrick Doyal On FOCUS Mission
The product of a U.S. Military upbringing and fresh out of college, Mr. Patrick Doyal explains in this edition his commitment to serve for the next three years as a Catholic missionary of the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS).
Published on: July 26, 2024Bill Newbrough On Role As Major Gifts Director
Bill Newbrough reflects on how you can support military Catholics in his new role as Donor Relations Officer of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, in this episode of Catholic Military Life.
Published on: July 16, 2024Col. Patrick Raglow
In this episode retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Patrick J. Raglow shares how his long military career--and his association with Catholic military chaplains--prepared him to organize relief efforts for tornado victims as the Executive Director of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City.
Published on: June 24, 2024Gen. John And Mary Lathrop On Conversion
In this episode retired Brigadier General John W. Lathrop and wife Mary share how a firefight on the first day of Operation Desert Storm in 1991 led to his conversion to Catholicism.
Published on: June 5, 2024Sompaul Vorapanich On Warriors To Lourdes 2024
In this episode retired U.S. Army First Sergeant Sompaul Vorapanich, a member of the Knights of Columbus and Director of the annual Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage, shares how ailing veterans find peace and healing at the sanctuary baths and grotto of Our Lady.
Published on: May 17, 2024Father Peter A. Pomposello, CH (MAJ), USA
In this episode Father Peter A. Pomposello, CH (MAJ), USA, tells how he recruited more than two dozen prospective Catholic U.S. Army chaplains in less than 18 months as the Army's chief Catholic chaplain recruiter.
Published on: May 14, 2024General Kevin Chilton On National Eucharistic Congress
In this episode retired Space Shuttle astronaut and four-star U.S. Air Force General Kevin P. Chilton mulls over his upcoming presentation on "trustworthy stewards" at the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis on Thursday, July 19.
Published on: April 29, 2024Dr. Mark Moitoza On National Eucharistic Congress
In this episode, Dr. Mark Moitoza, Th.D., D. Min., Vice-Chancellor for Evangelization of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, tells how qualified military Catholics can get a big discount on passes to the five-day National Eucharistic Congress July 17-21, 2024, in Indianapolis.
Published on: April 12, 2024Lt. Col. Louis & Kathleen Hoffman
In this episode Lt. Col. Louis Hoffman, USA (Ret.) and his wife Kathleen share how Catholic chaplains became a force multiplier in his accomplished career as a Green Beret and hers as an Army nurse.
Published on: March 20, 2024Rev. Mr. Jacob George
In this episode the Reverend Mr. Jacob George, a newly ordained Transitional Deacon currently honing his canon law skills in the Tribunal of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, recounts his extraordinary journey from predominantly Hindu and Muslim cultures to Catholic priesthood and the possibility of eventual service as a U.S. Military chaplain.
Published on: March 13, 2024Hunter McDonnell (PVT), USA - A Conversion Story
In this edition of Catholic Military Life, Private First Class Hunter McDonnell of the Virginia Army National Guard and his mom, Ms. Noel Orsak, share how boot camp at Fort Jackson made him a believer in the Catholic Faith as he prepares to enter the National Military Academy at West Point.
Published on: February 21, 2024Father Tyler Harris, Ch, Capt, USAF, On Pastoral Service In U.S. Air Force
As a U.S. Air Force chaplain assigned to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Father Captain Tyler R. Harris, CH, Capt, USAF, in this edition of Catholic Military Life, shares how he leads souls in the Paradise of the Pacific to the Paradise of Eternity.
Published on: February 7, 2024Father Marcel Taillon - AMS Interim Vocations Director
Meet Father Marcel Taillon, the new interim Vocations Director for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, in this edition of Catholic Military Life.
Published on: January 29, 2024Ms. Donna Cowdrey On Catholic U.S. Military Chaplains
Ms. Donna Cowdrey and her late husband, U.S. Marine Brigadier General Christian B. Cowdrey, relied on Catholic military chaplains to access the sacraments and practice their faith through decades of service that included his deployment to Beirut at the time of the 1983 terrorist bombing that killed 241 American servicemen at the Marine Corps barracks there. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, she shares how those priests on active duty made a difference.
Published on: January 24, 2024Mr. Jose Amaya On Faith Formation
As AMS Director of Faith Formation Mr. José Amaya is responsible for training and mentoring catechetical leaders on U.S. Military installations all over the world. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, Mr. Amaya shares how he encourages religious educators to commit themselves to service to others with missionary zeal.
Published on: December 19, 2023Catholic Military Apostolate Of The United States
A newly established Catholic Military Apostolate of the United States (CMA-US) aims to build Catholic communities on installations worldwide in all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. President Nicholas Cammaroto, SSgt, USAF, and colleagues share details including how you can join in this edition of Catholic Military Life.
Published on: December 6, 2023Bishop Bill Muhm & Ms. Carrie Bucalo On Child Sex Abuse
Child sex abuse at the hands of a former Catholic Church lay leader is the topic of a new book by U.S. Army wife and abuse survivor Carrie Bucalo and Auxiliary Bishop William (Bill) Muhm of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the co-authors share how the Book of Matthew, Chapter 18, offers healing and guidance.
Published on: November 14, 2023Martin H. Joyce On Most Holy Trinity Catholic Chapel At West Point
Built in 1900, the Catholic Chapel of the Most Holy Trinity at the United States Military Academy in West Point, NY, is the oldest, continuously used chapel at West Point, and the only house of worship owned by the Catholic Church on U.S. Government property. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, West Point alum Martin H. Joyce III tells what he discovered about the chapel in research for a just-published book.
Published on: November 8, 2023Msgr. Anthony R. Frontiero - AMS Vicar General
In July, the Reverend Monsignor Anthony R. Frontiero, S.T.D., took office as Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS). In this edition of Catholic Military Life, Msgr. Frontiero introduces himself and reflects on his remarkable journey as a man of God and the new day-to-day leader of AMS operations, clergy, and staff.
Published on: October 19, 2023Father Anthony Williams On Conversion And Discernment
Father Anthony Williams, a retired U.S. Air Force chaplain and priest of the Diocese of Kansas City, knows first-hand the truth behind the old maxim, "It's not where you start--it's where you finish that counts." Although raised protestant Father Williams converted to Catholicism as a young airman and eventually discovered his vocation. He shares his faith journey in this edition of Catholic Military Life.
Published on: October 12, 2023Col. Chuck Gallina - WTL2024
The application period is now open for U.S. servicemen and women and veterans--particularly those suffering from wounds of war--to apply for an all-expenses paid journey to Lourdes, France, in May 2024. The Warriors to Lourdes journey coincides with the annual International Military Pilgrimage there. In the Sept. 25 edition of Catholic Military Life, Col. Chuck Gallina, USMC (Ret.), of the Knights of Columbus shares details, along with some old war stories from his four tours in Vietnam during the 1960s and 70s.
Published on: September 26, 2023Admiral Bill Fallon On Pilgrimage For The Sea Services
In this edition of Catholic Military Life, a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, retired Four-Star Admiral William J. Fallon shares his experience at the Pentagon on 9/11 and other stories from his 41 years in the U.S. Navy. And he invites all to the Pilgrimage for the Sea Services Mass on Sunday, Oct. 1, at 3:30 p.m. EDST at the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, 339 South Seton Avenue, Emmitsburg, MD 21727.
Published on: September 19, 2023Bob Pinkerton On Father Vincent R. Capodanno
With the annual Memorial Mass for Father Vincent R. Capodanno, MM, Servant of God, coming up on Sept. 5, Mr. Bob Pinkerton, a former U.S. Marine who served with Father Capodanno in Vietnam, recalls his experiences with the Vietnam War hero chaplain in this edition of Catholic Military Life.
Published on: August 30, 2023Kristina M. Hughes On World Youth Day 2023
Kristina M. Hughes, (2LT) USA, a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, took a break from graduate studies in the U.K. the first week of August, 2023, to visit Portugal for World Youth Day. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, Lt. Hughes tells how her experience has inspired her in her pursuit of a military career.
Published on: August 9, 2023Sarah Wannarka On Catholic Military Chaplains 1
Assistant U.S. Attorney and self-described "Army brat" Sarah Wannarka re-discovered her respect for Catholic U.S. Military chaplains when she did tours in Afghanistan to coach local prosecutors. She shares her story in this edition of Catholic Military Life, a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.
Published on: July 27, 2023Sherry Ohotnicky On American Heritage Girls
Raising girls in the Catholic faith can be a challenge for families in today's increasingly secular society where even traditional notions of scouting are in flux, but as U.S. Air Force wife and mother Sherry Ohotnicky explains in this edition of Catholic Military Life, support can be found in the character development organization, American Heritage Girls.
Published on: July 19, 2023Rear Admiral Garry E. Hall, USN (Ret.), on Navigating Leadership
A new book, Navigating Leadership: Making a Pact with Excellence, is billed on Amazon as must-read material for anyone seeking to become an exceptional leader. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, the author, Catholic Rear Admiral Garry E. Hall, USN (Ret.), shares how the qualities of passion, accountability, commitment, and traits and traditions are essential to effective leadership.
Published on: June 26, 2023Father Dan Goulet On Scouting
Catholic youth involved in scouting can earn religious emblems alongside their merit badges as a way of developing their understanding and practice of Catholic faith. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Dan Goulet, CH (MAJ), USA, the archdiocese's scouting chaplain, explains.
Published on: June 15, 2023Will Peterson On National Eucharistic Pilgrimage
On the weekend of Pentecost in 2024, four groups of 12 pilgrims will set out from four corners of the United States for Indianapolis, IN, with plans to arrive in time for the July 17-21 National Eucharistic Congress. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, organizer Will Peterson shares the meaning of the pilgrimage and how you can join.
Published on: May 24, 2023New Missionary Disciples
The Evangelization Office of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, is initiating a new program for sending missionary disciples to live at U.S. Military bases where they will work to make fishers of young adult servicemen and women. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the first two disciples to answer the call, Ms. Stephanie Nussio and Ms. Jurate Reventas, share plans for their upcoming assignment to Travis Air Force Base in California.
Published on: May 19, 2023Joseph Frank Simpson On Father Capodanno
In 1966 when U.S. Marine Private First Class Joseph Frank Simpson arrived in Vietnam at the age of 19, there to greet him at a grass-hut makeshift chapel was Father Vincent R. Capodanno, CH, LT, USN. Father Capodanno's words of counsel and encouragement helped PFC Simpson orient himself to his new surroundings, just months before the priest died a heroic death coming to the aid of embattled Marines. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, Mr. Simpson shares his memories of the priest hero who posthumously received the Medal of Honor for his bravery and whose Cause for Canonization is under consideration by the Catholic Church.
Published on: April 24, 2023Michael Scoffone On Military Chaplains
Lieutenant Commander Michael Scoffone of the U.S. Navy Reserve has more than 20 years experience in the Reserve and on active-duty deployments. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, LCDR Scoffone explains how Catholic Military chaplains are indispensable to the Navy's mission to deter foreign aggression and maintain freedom of the seas.
Published on: April 20, 2023John Schlageter On Saint John XXIII Foundation
In February of 2023, Archbishop Timothy Broglio announced creation of the Saint John XXIII Foundation to establish perpetual endowed support for pastoral care to those who serve. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, the Foundation's Executive Director, Mr. John Schlageter, Esq., explains how the Foundation will work and how you can participate.
Published on: March 16, 2023Capt. Gene Krantz, USAF (Ret)
He was a NASA flight director for Apollo 11, the mission that landed the first men on the moon, and for Apollo 13, which brought three endangered astronauts home safely from their aborted mission. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Capt. Eugene F. Kranz, USAF (Ret.), reflects on his historic role in the early days of space exploration and how his practice of Catholic faith shaped the trajectory of his remarkable career.
Published on: March 7, 2023Deacon Joe Donohoe On Veteran Outreach
In the Archdiocese of Denver, Catholic Deacon and retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Joe Donohoe has set out to bring disenfranchised Catholic veterans back into the flock. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, Lt. Col. Donohoe, the nephew of a World War Two era U.S. Navy chaplain, shares how he pursues this special ministry.
Published on: February 24, 2023Ms. Elizabeth Tomlin On Living The Word Catholic Women's Bible
Catholic women seeking to deepen their faith in Christ now have access to Living the World Catholic Women's Bible, published by Ave Maria Press. Catholic author and U.S. Army wife Elizabeth Tomlin, Esq., is among writers contributing reflections to the new publication. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Ms. Tomlin explores the example of Priscilla and other biblical women whose witness is of particular relevance to their sisters in the faith.
Published on: February 10, 2023Madeline Stockman, Missionary Discipleship Trainer
In response to Pope Francis's dream of a "missionary impulse capable of transforming everything," the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), has Missionary Disipleship Trainers who guide fellow military Catholics in ways to evangelize and "reach more" disciples through participation in a movement organized by Evangelical Catholic of Madison, WI. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Trainer Madeline Stockman of Fort Bragg, NC, shares how she ignites the missionary impulse in a twelve-week course of virtual sessions with prospective missionaries.
Published on: January 27, 2023Monsignor Michael Butler, Ch Col USAF (Ret.)
The growing shortage of Catholic U.S. Military chaplains has left installations such as Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling (JBAB) in Washington, DC, without an active-duty priest. Recently, Monsignor Michael Butler, Ch Col USAF (Ret.) came out of retirement at the age of 61 to serve full-time as a civil service federal employee at JBAB, providing pastoral care to Catholics at the base. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Msgr. Butler talks about his unlikely path to military service and the vocation within a vocation, serving those who serve.
Published on: January 25, 2023Meet Father Stuart A. King
Meet Father Stu--not the one of film and fame, but Father Stuart A. King, Ch Col USAF, a Catholic U.S. Air Force chaplain now serving at Scott Air Force Base in Illinois. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father King shares how he started out as a Protestant minister only to find his way to the Catholic Church and priesthood.
Published on: December 13, 2022Defend Us In Battle - The True Story Of U.S. Navy SEAL Michael A. Monsoor
In Ar Ramadi, Iraq, on Sept. 29, 2006, the Feast of St. Michael the Archangel, U.S. Navy Seal Michael Monsoor, MA2, USN, whose parents had named him after the patron saint of soldiers, made the ultimate sacrifice, throwing himself onto a live grenade and suffering fatal injuries to save the lives of fellow SEALS. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Mrs. Rose Rea shares the story behind a new biography that she collaborated on with Michael's father. She is joined in this edition by Steve Gilmore, CAPT, USN (Ret.).
Published on: December 7, 2022Ms. Kitty Eisenbeil On Archdiocesan Review Board
Meet Mrs. Kitty Eisenbeil, the newest appointed member to the Review Board of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA--a position to which she brings a wealth of professional experience counseling victims of sex abuse. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese, Mrs. Eisenbeil shares her insights on a problem Catholic bishops are committed to solve.
Published on: November 18, 2022MG John L. Scott on His Conversion to Catholicism
35 years in the U.S. Army brought John L. Scott much more than career advancement to the point of retiring at the rank of Major General. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Gen. Scott shares how he discovered the Catholic faith, converted to Catholicism, and now serves as a Catholic deacon--thanks in large part to the influence of the Catholic Army chaplains with whom he served.
Published on: November 10, 2022Maxime Nogier On St. John Paul II National Shrine
The Saint John Paul II National Shrine, with its dazzling mosaics in the Redemptor Hominis Church, is a splendid setting for the Nov. 19, 2022 14th Annual Benefit for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese, the Shrine's Executive Director, Dr. Maxime Nogier, shares what attendees will experience as they explore the magnificent shrine which reflects its patron's deep love for God and for man.
Published on: October 14, 2022Mary Lavin On National Collection - Annual Benefit 2022
Two giving opportunities in November--the Nov. 5-6 Triennial National Collection and the Nov. 19 Annual Benefit--provide the faithful with direct ways to support the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), and those she serves. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Ms. Mary Lavin, Excutive Director of Major Giving and Planned Giving, shares why your private gift is crucial to the AMS mission.
Published on: October 12, 2022Col. Chuck Gallina, USMC (Ret.) On Warriors To Lourdes 2023
On Sept. 15, the Knights of Columbus (K of C) began accepting applications to go on the May 9-15, 2023 Warriors to Lourdes spiritual journey. All applications must be received by Jan. 15, 2023 to be considered. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese, Col. Chuck Gallina, USMC (Ret.), of the K of C explains where to apply and what's in store for those accepted.
Published on: September 26, 2022Father Chris Alar, MIC, On Veteran Suicide
September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Chris Alar, MIC, author of the bestseller, "After Suicide: There's Hope for Them and for You," explores why the suicide rate is so much higher among veterans than the general population, and what can be done about a mental health epidemic that claims the lives of as many as 22 veterans a day.
Published on: September 19, 2022Co - Sponsored Seminarian Erin Donlon
At a time when all branches of the U.S. Military are struggling to fill a chronic shortage of Catholic chaplains, Co-Sponsored Seminarians like Erin Donlon of the Diocese of Portland, ME, are stepping up to make a difference. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Erin shares how he discovered the vocation within a vocation to serve as priest on active duty in the Navy.
Published on: August 22, 2022Kenneth L. Fields On Father Capodanno
September 4, 1967--a day Mr. Kenneth L. Fields, USMC (Ret.), will never forget. It was the day the body of Vietnam War hero Father Vincent Capodanno was laid at his feet as he manned a machine gun, just hours after the U.S. Navy chaplain was fatally shot while dashing to the aid of wounded and dying Marines under ambush. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Mr. Fields shares his story.
Published on: August 10, 2022Chaplain Brian Minietta On Moral Injury
At a noisy sidewalk café in Lourdes, France, the Reverend Brian Minietta, CH (MAJ), USA, recalls his first pilgrimage with the Warriors to Lourdes in 2016 when he encountered a veteran suffering moral injury from having shot and killed an enemy combatant in Iraq who, though armed, turned out to be a child. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Chaplain Minietta shares how he helped the vet overcome his sense of shame and alienation.
Published on: July 26, 2022Col. Paul Hettich, USA (Ret.), On Warriors To Lourdes
After 30 years of military service and five combat deployments, Col. Paul Hettich, USA (Ret.), came to France in May with Warriors to Lourdes to find healing and renewal at the sacred Marian grotto and refreshing spring waters. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, Col. Hettich shares his story at Toulouse-Blagnac Airport while waiting on a flight home from the pilgrimage.
Published on: July 18, 2022McKenzie Mauss On AMS Missionary Initiative
Help Wanted! Missionaries to support Catholic Military chaplains and reach young adults in the U.S Armed forces by providing accompaniment as they teach and re-engage servicemen and women in the Catholic Faith. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Young Adult Missionary Coordinator McKenzie Mauss explores the job description and how you can become a Missionary. Listen to podcast. Watch video.
Published on: July 14, 2022Adam and Tiffany Farabaugh - Warriors To Lourdes 2022
For this edition, Catholic Military Life--the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), travels to France to chat with Warriors to Lourdes pilgrims and U.S. Army veterans Adam and Tiffany Farabaugh. Adam, a medically retired sergeant, and Tiffany, a former active-duty soldier and now a major in the Army Reserve, have both served in war zones and came to the famous Marian shrine for healing. This is their story.
Published on: June 10, 2022Kimberly Colby On Infertility In The Military
We've all seen those heart-warming photos of military men and women returning home from a long deployment to be greeted by big hugs with their children. But what about the military couple who for whatever reason can't have a child? In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Capt. Kimberly Colby of the U.S. Marine Corps Forces Reserve shares how she and her husband Mark, formerly of the U.S. Navy, are tapping their spirituality to deal with infertility, and where other military couples facing the same dilemma can find support.
Published on: May 26, 2022Father Robert Cannon On National Collection For AMS
This year U.S. Catholics have an opportunity to contribute to a special collection at Sunday Mass for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS). In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, the AMS Chancellor, Father Robert R. Cannon, Ch, Col, USAF (Ret.), whose home Diocese of Venice, FL, takes up the collection the weekend of May 14-15, 2022, shares what's at stake for the exercise of Catholic faith in the U.S. Military.
Published on: May 6, 2022Father Mark Rutherford On Filling Chaplain Shortage At Grand Forks AFB
As one of senior clergy on staff at the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), the Judicial Vicar, Father Mark Rutherford, J.C.L., recently experienced first-hand the impact of a growing shortage of Catholic U.S. Military chaplains. In the week leading up to Easter, he filled in for a recently deployed priest at Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Father Rutherford shares his experience of providing pastoral care to a flock without their local shepherd.
Published on: April 26, 2022Father Vincent Woo on China & Hong Kong
Russia's attempt to take over Ukraine strikes a familiar note with Father Vincent Woo, a priest of the Diocese of Hong Kong who is currently serving in the Tribunal of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, while purusing a doctorate in canon law. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese, Father Woo shares his experience of the Chinese takeover of his native Hong Kong, what that bodes for religious freedom in the former British colony, and why Americans including those in the U.S. Military should care.
Published on: April 12, 2022Megan Gilbert On Catholic Relief Services For Ukraine
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) offers military families as well as the general public a way to help Ukrainians withstand the ongoing Russian invasion. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Ms. Megan Gilbert, CRS Communications Officer, shares what CRS is doing to provide humanitarian relief and how you can help.
Published on: March 23, 2022Archbishop Borys Gudziak On War In Ukraine
Among freedoms Ukraine is fighting the Russians for is the freedom to exercise religion. U.S. and NATO troops stand ready to join the fight if called upon. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Ukranian Catholic Archbishop Borys Gudziak of Philadelphia shares what's at stake.
Published on: March 15, 2022Rev. Andrew Calandriello On Four Chaplains
February 2022 marks the 79th anniversary of the heroic deaths of the Four Chaplains, ministers of different faiths and denominations who gave up their life vests to fellow soldiers on board the SS Dorchester as it sank in the North Atlantic after a German submarine torpedoed the troop transport ship with more than 900 aboard. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Rev. Andrew Calandriello recounts the experience of that fateful night as told him by his father, who was on the Dorchester when mahem broke out, killing more than three of four on board.
Published on: February 22, 2022Auxiliary Bishop Bill Muhm On Ukraine
Russia's invasion of Ukraine has brought more U.S. troops to Europe where they remain on high alert. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Auxiliary Bishop William (Bill) Muhm, Vicar for Europe and Asia, visits Washington, D.C., from his home base in Germany, talks about the impact on Catholics who serve, and shares his experiences of ongoing regular international travel in time of COVID.
Published on: February 15, 2022MCCW Forum 2022
The Military Council of Catholic Women (MCCW) is inviting Catholic women with a connection to the U.S. Armed Forces to take part in its Forum 2022 April 21-24 in Tampa, FL. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, MCCW President Kim Miller and Forum Director Aly Tugaoen tell us what's in store for those who participate.
Published on: January 26, 2022Father S. Matthew Gray On AMS Vocations
As Vocations Director of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), Father S. Matthew Gray has his work cut out for him. He is responsible for shepherding young men discerning a vocation to the Catholic priesthood and U.S. Military chaplaincy at a time when active-duty priests are in extreme short supply. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Father Gray shares his vision for how to plug the gap.
Published on: January 14, 2022Nurse Megan Gabauer On Prayer Books
The Knights of Columbus recently published the 6th edition of Armed With the Faith, an almost indestructible prayer book for active-duty personnel to carry wherever they go, even in the heat of battle. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, nurse Megan Gabauer shares how the prayer book helps bring healing to wounded or ill warriors.
Published on: December 17, 2021Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly
In June 2021, retired U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General Patrick E. Kelly, Esq., was installed as Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus (K of C). In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), Mr. Kelly joins us by telephone from K of C headquarters in New Haven, CT, to share his vision for a vast, growing international fraternity that each year generously raises tens of millions of dollars for the Catholic Church, including strong support for the AMS and its Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program.
Published on: December 13, 2021Ms. Victoria Kaczmarek On Assisting AMS Auxiliary Bishops
Unlike other Catholic U.S. dioceses, the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), spans the globe, shepherding U.S. Military members wherever they go. Noone knows better than Ms. Victoria Kaczmarek, whose job it is to support the year-round travel of Archbishop Timothy Broglio's four auxiliary bishops. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Ms. Kaczmarek shares the joys and challenges of helping the bishops get where they need to go, across state lines and national boundaries.
Published on: November 23, 2021Father Richard Erikson on "Born To Bless The Fallen"
Father Richard Erikson, Ch, Brig Gen, USAF (Ret), recently teamed up with Country and Western singer/songwriter Jay Clementi to compose a song about U.S. Military chaplains. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Erikson joins us to listen to the song, "Born to Bless the Fallen," and tell how the song came about.
Published on: November 9, 2021Father Daniel Swartz On Afghanistan Evacuation
Father Daniel J. Swartz, CHC, LT, USN, was with the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment at the Kabul airport on Aug. 26 when a suicide bomber attacked, killing 13 American military members and many civilians who were trying to flee Afghanistan following the Taliban takeover. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Swartz tells his story.
Published on: October 26, 2021Bishop F. Richard Spencer On Father Kapaun Homecoming
The homecoming of Father Emil Kapaun, Servant of God, to the Diocese of Wichita, KS, last month was greeted with the hero's welcome he deserved, 70 years after his death in a North Korean Prisoner-of-War Camp. Auxiliary Bishop F. Richard Spencer of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), was among those present and shares his experience in this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS.
Published on: October 22, 2021Father Robbie Deka - Air Force Recruiter
Like other branches of the U.S. Military, the Air Force is in sore need of more Catholic priests to go on active duty as chaplains. Father Robbie Deka, Ch, Capt, USAF, is a chaplain recruiter for the Air Force. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Deka explains how serious the shortage is, and what he's doing to plug the gap.
Published on: September 23, 2021Col. Chuck Gallina On Warriors To Lourdes 2022
The Knights of Columbus and the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), will resume their annual Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage in May of 2022 following a two-year hiatus due to the coronavirus pandemic. The dates for the upcoming Pilgrimage are May 10-16, 2022. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Colonel Chuck Gallina, USMC (Ret.), explains who qualifies for the all-expenses paid trip to the famous Grotto and its healing spring waters.
Published on: September 15, 2021Father Dan Lorimer On Afghanistan
The Aug. 26, 2021 suicide bombing at the Kabul airport hit close to home for Father Daniel Lorimer, a priest of the Diocese of Wichita, KS, and former U.S. Army chaplain. From February to October 2014, Father Lorimer served in Afghanistan, hopscotching by helicopter between Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) to bring the sacraments to U.S. servicemen and women on the front lines. In the Aug. 30 edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Lorimer shares his experiences and thoughts on the 20-year war's violent end.
Published on: August 30, 2021Congressman Ahn Joseph Cao On Afghan Refugees
The televised images of the U.S. Military airlift of refugees from Afghanistan are strangely familiar to Catholic former Congressman Anh (Joseph) Cao of Louisiana. When he was a boy of only eight, he fled his native Vietnam to start life anew without parents in America, went on to graduate from Baylor University with a degree in physics and spent six years as a Jesuit seminarian before becoming a lawyer and the first Vietnamese American ever elected to Congress. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, former Congressman Cao shares his thoughts on the quandary now facing Afghan refugees.
Published on: August 24, 2021Vice Adm. P. Stephen Stanley & Sgt. Maj. Henry Hernandez, USMC (Ret), on Father Capodanno Mass
On Sept. 7, 2021, at 6:30 p.m., Archbishop Timothy Broglio will celebrate the annual Memorial Mass for Father Vincent R. Capodanno, MM, in the Crypt Church of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, 400 Michigan Avenue Northeast, in Washington, D.C. EWTN will televise the Mass live across North America. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Retired Admiral P. Steve Stanley, Chairman of the Father Capodanno Guild, and Retired U.S. Marine Sergeant Major Henry Hernandez, who served with Father Capodanno, share why they believe "the Grunt Padre" should be canonized in the Catholic Chruch.
Published on: July 27, 2021Becket Foundation Attorney Daniel Bloomberg On Religious Freedom In The Military
The First Amendment right to free exercise of religion is alive and well in the U.S. Military despite ongoing cases and controversies. That's the encouraging assessment of Mr. Daniel Blomberg, Esq., Senior Counsel at the Becket Fund for Religious Liberty. He elaborates in this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.
Published on: July 8, 2021David Crum Of CWA
COVID-19 has taken a steep toll on the Catholic War Veterans (CWV) of the USA and its Auxiliary. Between March 2020 and July 2021, the veteran service organization lost more than 300 of its eight-thousand members at a time when membership, once boasting 50,000, was already in steady decline. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, CWV National Commander David Crum considers the future of the organization founded in 1935 and chartered by Congress.
Published on: June 28, 2021Father Aidan Logan On Vocations
Since 2014, 65 men have entered seminary to become Catholic U.S. Military chaplains, and so far 38 have been ordained priests, nine have gone on active duty, and another 24 will go on active duty over the next three years with more on the way. Those strong numbers are thanks in large part to Father Aidan Logan, O.C.S.O., who soon leaves his role as Vocations Director for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), to pursue other ministry. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Father Logan reflects on a remarkably successful seven-and-a-half years guiding young men discerning the vocation within a vocation to serve those who serve.
Published on: June 24, 2021Mosongo Osong And Pete Socks On AMS Family Witness To Christ 1
Learning about the Catholic faith can be fun for children and teens on the portal, AMS Family Witness to Christ. The portal, powered by Catholicbrain.com, provides games, puzzles, videos, songs, and other innovative and interactive tools to attract and hold the interest of students in grades pre-K through 12. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Catholicbrain CEO and Founder Mosongo Osong and Director of Content and Marketing Pete Socks share how the Catholicbrain came to be and why it's an especially useful educational tool for military families.
Published on: May 26, 2021Father Jason E. Hesseling, CH, MAJ (USA)
Father Jason E. Hesseling, CH (MAJ), USA, was recently awarded the U.S. Army Order of St. Martin of Tours Chaplaincy Award for his service to the Catholic community at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington State. The award is given to a chaplain or religious affairs specialist who has demonstrated "the highest standards of integrity and moral character," displayed "an outstanding degree of professional competence," and "selflessly served soldiers and families, and contributed to the promotion of the Army Chaplaincy. Father Hesseling serves with endorsement and faculties from the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS). In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Father Hesseling talks about his life and service as a U.S. Army chaplain and how he came to receive the Army Chaplain Corps' most prestigious award.
Published on: May 7, 2021Dr. Nancy Sherman On Moral Injury And Stoicism
Is it a virtue to endure hardship without complaint? The Stoics of Ancient Greece certainly thought so. In her new book, "Stoic Wisdom: Ancient Lessons for Modern Resilience," Dr. Nancy Sherman, a Professor of Philosophy at Georgetown University and former holder of the inaugural Chair in Ethics at the U.S. Naval Academy, cites evidence the practice of stoicism can actually help treat a condition afflicting many in the Military: moral injury, the spiritual agony suffered from committing, failing to prevent, or witnessing an act contradicting one's deeply-held moral beliefs. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Dr. Sherman shares insights to be published in her new book, out May 11, 2021. Preregistration is open at Amazon or wherever books are sold.
Published on: April 27, 2021Father Daniel R. Sweeney, SJ, Prayerbook Editor
Since 2004, the Knights of Columbus have funded publication of "Armed with the Faith," a Catholic prayerbook specifically for Catholics in the U.S. Military. The pocket-size, water-resistant prayerbook (shown on the desk in the photo) is designed for use anywhere those who serve may find themselves, whether in the relative safety of a home base or port, or in the field or high seas of battle. "Armed with the Faith" has proven to be so popular all available copies have been distributed and the prayerbook is currently out of stock. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), Father Daniel R. Sweeney, S.J., a U.S. Air Force chaplain colonel and the prayerbook's editor, reveals a new edition will soon go to press and shares when "Armed with the Faith" will once again be available to Catholics in uniform.
Published on: April 20, 2021Rev. Mr. Jason Allan - Co - Sponsored Seminarian
While in High School, the Reverend Mr. Jason Allan thought he would become an engineer, but God had other plans. In May of 2021, he will be ordained a priest of the Diocese of Fort Worth, TX, with plans of eventually becoming an active-duty U.S. Navy Chaplain. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, the Rev. Mr. Allan traces his journey through priestly formation and shares how he hopes to relieve a chronic shortage of Catholic chaplains on active duty.
Published on: March 17, 2021Father Paul Kostka - U.S. Naval Academy
With active-duty chaplains in short supply, the U.S. Navy has recruited a reservist to serve as 3rd Battalion chaplain at the U.S. Naval Academy. Father Paul Kostka, CHC, LT, USN, came to Annapolis from Denver, CO, in October 2020 to begin a one-year assignment. Before his tour at the Naval Academy, Father Kostka served in support of the 3rd Marine Expedition at the Navy Reserve Center in Denver, where he was also a chaplain at the University of Denver. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Kostka, a member of the religious congregation, Servants of Christ Jesus, shares his experiences providing pastoral care to the midshipmen.
Published on: March 9, 2021Joe Drape On Father Kapaun And The Making Of Saints
New York Times bestselling author Joe Drape is out with a new book called The Saint Makers. It explores how the Holy See's Congregation for the Causes of Saints goes about deciding who gets to be a saint, focusing heavily on the current case of Korean War hero, U.S. Army Chaplain, and Medal of Honor recipient Father Emil Kaupan (1916-1951). The rich and unique narrative leads from the plains of Kansas where Father Kapaun was born and raised to the opulent halls of the Vatican, through brutal Korean War prison camps, and into the stories of two individuals, Avery Gerleman and Chase Kear, whose lives were threatened by illness and injury and whose family and friends prayed to Father Kapaun, sparking miraculous recoveries in the heart of America. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Mr. Drape shares some of what he found while researching Father Kapaun's life story and all that's required in the Catholic Church to become a saint.
Published on: February 17, 2021Father Michael Zimmer On Guard Deployment To D.C.
Two weeks after the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, the National Guard was called in to keep order during the inauguration of President Joseph Biden. Father Michael Zimmer, Ch, Capt, USAF, a chaplain in the Nebraska Air National Guard, was among those deployed to the Nation's Capital. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Zimmer joins us by phone from Lincoln, where he is stationed with the 155th Air Refueling Wing. He shares how he celebrated Mass on a makeshift altar in the Capitol building while providing pastoral care for Guard members on a tense but ultimately successful mission to keep the peace in a turbulent time on Capitol Hill.
Published on: February 3, 2021Father Alejandro De Jesus - NCVACC
Father Alejandro De Jesus is the new president of the National Conference of Veterans Affairs Catholic Chaplains (NCVACC). He works full time at the San Antonio VA Medical Center and succeeds Father R. Peter Francis as NCVACC president. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father De Jesus joins us by telephone from San Antonio to share how the NCVACC supports pastoral care for Catholics receiving treatment from the VA. And he explains how a recent change in the federal employment classification of VA chaplains is meant to raise the standard of ministry but could also make it harder for Catholic priests to become VA chaplains at a time when some medical centers are suffering a shortage of Catholic chaplains.
Published on: January 21, 2021Bishop Moses Chikwe
In Nigeria on Dec. 27, 2020, thugs wielding semi-automatic rifles kidnapped Auxiliary Bishop Moses Chikwe of Owerri and his driver, Mr. Ndubuisi Robert. Bishop Chikwe is a former chaplain at the Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in San Diego, CA. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Bishop Chikwe shares how their abductors held them for five days in the Nigerian wilderness, at one point attacking Mr. Robert with a machete, only to receive His Excellency's forgiveness and blessings upon their release, but not the ransom they had sought.
Published on: January 15, 2021Mr. Patrick DiLoreto On His Vocation
Seminarian Patrick DiLoreto discovered his military calling before he did his priestly vocation. Through the ROTC program at the University of Northern Colorado, he joined the Colorado National Guard at the end of his freshman year in 2012, inspired in part by the influence of an older brother who served in the U.S. Army and deployed to Afghanistan while Mr. DiLoreto was still in high school. But it was not until he made a spiritual retreat his junior year in college that he discerned a call to priesthood and military chaplaincy. Now, Mr. DiLoreto is on track to be ordained a priest for the Diocese of Colorado Springs in 2023 with plans to go on active duty as an Army chaplain. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Mr. DiLoreto reflects on his priestly calling and how he hopes to make a difference serving those who serve.
Published on: December 14, 2020Father Joseph M. Fleury, the Nation's Oldest Active-Duty Military Chaplain
Meet Father Joseph M. Fleury, CH (COL), USA. At 69, he is the oldest active-duty chaplain in the U.S. Military. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Fleury traces his extraordinary 32-year career in the Army, recapping tours in Korea, Panama and elsewhere, and he shares how his 2005 deployment to war-torn Afghanistan has so far been the most meaningful of his long period of service to those who serve, which, by the way, has just been extended another two years.
Published on: December 10, 2020Father Mark Bristol On COVID Outbreak Aboard USS Theordore Roosevelt
Father Mark Bristol, CHC LT, USN, is one of four U.S. Navy chaplains assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Theordore Roosevelt (CVN-71), and the only Catholic priest. Father Bristol was on board in late March when an outbreak of COVID-19 sidelined the Roosevelt at Guam for more than two months during a deployment to the Western Pacific. Ultimately, more than 1,200 sailors were infected--about 25% of the carrier's crew, and one died. For the first time Father Bristol gives a complete first-hand account in this, the Nov. 23 edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.
Published on: November 23, 2020Mr. Armando Herrera On His Vocation
Mr. Armando Herrera majored in pre-medicine while going through the ROTC program at the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), hoping one day to become a doctor in the U.S. Army. While finishing up his degree, though, Mr. Herrera began to explore life's deeper meaning. He discerned God's call to the priesthood and military chaplaincy. Now, Mr. Herrera, 27, is immersed in priestly formation at Theological College in Washington, D.C., where he is on track to be ordained a priest in 2022. Mr. Herrera plans eventually to go on active duty as an Army chaplain following a period of pastoral service in his home Diocese of Richmond, VA. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Mr. Herrera shares how his vocational ambitions evolved from "doctor of the body" to "doctor of the soul."
Published on: November 10, 2020Mr. Liam O'Shea - Creal On Priestly Vocation
Mr. Liam O'Shea-Creal, 25, grew up in Lincoln, NE, just two blocks from his Catholic parish. Although he went to a Catholic school and was active as an altar server, he had no intention of becoming a priest. Not until after he went to college at the University of Nebraska. There, as a student majoring first in business and then psychology, he began to discern a vocation. Now, Mr. O'Shea-Creal is in nearing the final stages of priestly formation at Mount St. Mary's Seminary in Emmittsburg, MD. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), the seminarian shares how he realized God was calling him to be both a priest and a chaplain in the U.S. Navy with AMS endorsement and faculties.
Published on: October 26, 2020Father Mark Ledoux On The Cause For Father Verbis Lafleur
Jesus Christ tells us in John 15:13 that "No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends." In World War Two, Father Joseph Verbis Lafleur (1912-1944) of Ville Platte, LA, a chaplain lieutenant in the U.S. Army Air Corps, lived out the meaning of that message. He died on a Japanese prisoner-of-war transport ship mistakenly torpedoed by a U.S. submarine off the coast of the Philippines, ignoring his own safety to aid wounded fellow American POWs, give absolution to the dying, and help those he could escape through an open hatch to freedom, even as their captors opened fire. On Sept. 5, 2020, Bishop J. Douglas Deshotel of Lafayette officially opened Father Lafleur's Cause for Canonization. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Mark Ledoux, the Episcopal Delegate for the Cause, shares the chaplain hero's remarkable story and how Father Lafleur, who posthumously received a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, and two Distinguished Service Crosses for his bravery, is now on track to become a saint.
Published on: October 9, 2020Admiral William Fallon On Pilgrimage For The Sea Services
The Annual Pilgrimage for the Sea Services will be celebrated on Oct. 4, 2020, at 3:30 p.m. EDT at the National Shrine of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, 339 South Seton Avenue, in Emmitsburg, MD. The principal celebrant and homilist will be the Most Reverend Joseph L. Coffey, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. Bishop Coffey is a retired U.S. Navy chaplain. Because of social distancing restrictions imposed by state and local officials over the COVID-19 pandemic, on-site participation will be limited to no more than two-hundred. However, the 3:30 p.m. Mass will be live-streamed to the public on the Seton Shrine’s website at https://setonshrine.org/annual-sea-services-pilgrimage/. A recorded edition will be accessible on the site after the event. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Retired Admiral William J. Fallon, Chairman of the Sponsoring Committee, talks about the unusual plans for this year's pilgrimage and how you can participate from home.
Published on: September 25, 2020Mr. Bradley Easterbrooks, Esq. (1)
When he finished law school at Pepperdine University and passed the bar exam, Bradley D. Easterbrooks embarked on a career in the U.S. Navy as a lawyer in the Judge Advocate General's (JAG) Corps. But God had other plans for the active-duty lieutenant. When Bradley discerned a priestly vocation, he put his military legal career on hold and entered seminary. He is now completing formation at the Pontifical North American College in Rome. Upon ordination, Bradley, 35, plans to go back on active duty as a U.S. Navy chaplain. He has his work cut out for him. Due to a nationwide shortage of priests, the Navy currently has only 48 active-duty Catholic chaplains, serving more than 135,000 Catholics not only in the Navy but also the Marine Corps, the Coast Guard, and their families. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Bradley retraces his journey to priesthood and shares how he hopes to help relieve the Catholic chaplain shortage and bring Christ to those who serve in the Navy.
Published on: September 10, 2020Father John Hotze On The Cause For Father Emil Kapaun
Korean War hero and U.S. Army Chaplain Father Emil Kapaun died on May 23, 1951, in a North Korean Prisoner of War (POW) camp. He had spent the previous six months risking his life to sustain and save the lives of fellow prisoners with no concern for his own health and safety. In 2013, then-President Obama postumously awarded Father Kaupan the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration. The Holy See's Congregation for the Causes of Saints is now considering Father Kaupan's Cause for Canonization. Father John Hotze, a priest of Father Kapaun's home Dioecese of Wichita, Kansas, is the Episcopal Delgate for the Cause. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Hotze joins us by telephone from Mulvane, Kansas, to bring us up to date on the progress of Father Kaupan's Cause.
Published on: August 26, 2020Father Mark Rutherford, J.C.L.
On July 16, 2020, Father Mark Rutherford, J.C.L., a priest of the Diocese of Lansing, MI, took office as Judicial Vicar of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS). In that role, Father Rutherford will oversee the archdiocesan Tribunal, which, among other judicial functions, rules on the validity or nonvalidty of marriages based on canon law. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Father Rutherford shares thoughts on his new role and how he hopes to serve those who serve, and he he notes in passing two of the most common signs of a troubled Catholic marriage.
Published on: August 21, 2020Be My Witnesses Mission 2020
Like nearly all U.S. educators, Catholic catechists in the U.S. Military have had to unleash creativity this year in their ministry of teaching the Catholic faith to children and young people from grades Pre-K through 12. Taking advantage of shelter-in-place orders due to COVID-19, Mr. Jose Amaya, Director of Faith Formation for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), is holding a series of webinars for clergy and lay catechetical leaders. Each webinar in the series, called "Be My Witnesses Mission 2020," deals with an aspect of the AMS vision for catechesis as outlined in the AMS Forming Disciples for the New Evangelization: Archdiocesan Religion Curriculum Guide and supported by the AMS Family Faith Assessment, catechist training and certification, and leadership development. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Mr. Amaya is joined by AMS catechetical leaders Jennifer Koepl at Fort Gordon, Roger Olaes at Travis Air Force Base, and Patti Ramos at Fort Lee to share how the webinars are honing their skills and strategic planning for the soon-to-start new year of religious education in the midst of pandemic in this global Archdiocese.
Published on: July 27, 2020Cycling Across Germany With Father Piotr Koziolkiewicz
Father Piotr Koziolkiewicz, CH (CPT), USA, finds balance between the physical and the spiritual. While not hearing confessions, administering other sacraments, or celebrating Mass for Catholics of the 589th Brigade Support Battalion at Grafenwöhr, Germany, he runs and bikes incredible distances. He stays active not only to stay in shape but also to serve as an example to the soldiers and their families in his flock. Recently, upon turning 40, Father Koziolkiewicz took a couple of long bike rides across Germany, each in excess of 300 miles. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Koziolkiewicz joins us by phone from Grafenwöhr to share his adventures on two wheels, and how they relate to his priestly calling serving those who serve.
Published on: July 17, 2020Katie Taylor & Casey Lee on Young Adult Ministry Symposium
In the Apostolic Exhortation Christus Vivit, Pope Francis calls on the Church to consider refreshing the ways she can accompany young people. Accordingly, the Evangelization Office of the Archdiocese for the Military Services will hold a Young Adult Ministry Symposium Aug. 6-9 in Silver Spring, MD, just outside the nation's capital. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese, organizers Katie Taylor and Casey Bustamante Lee share plans for the symposium, and how Catholic young adults between the ages of 18 and 29 who serve in the U.S. Military can make plans to participate.
Published on: June 24, 2020Father Aidan Logan On AMS Vocations
From the COVID-19 pandemic to the spread of racial tensions over alleged police brutality, the year 2020 so far has brought a trove of troubles. But amid all the uncertainty and social disruption, Catholics serving in the U.S. Military have reasons to celebrate. A record eighteen young men are being ordained this year in hopes of becoming military chaplains, offering hope for relief to a chronic shortage of priests serving on active duty. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), Vocations Director Father Aidan Logan, O.C.S.O., reflects on this banner year for AMS ordinations and what it could mean for the practice of Catholic faith in the U.S. Military.
Published on: June 16, 2020Rev. Mr. Daniel Duplantis
In spite of the COVID-19 pandemic, U.S. Military Catholics have cause for celebration this year. Seventeen young men who are on track to become military chaplains will be ordained. That’s the largest class of chaplain candidates in recent memory. Eight will be ordained priests and nine, transitional deacons in preparation for priestly ordination next year. The bumper harvest promises some relief to a desperate shortage of priests on active duty. The Reverend Mr. Daniel Duplantis, 2d Lt, USAFR, a prospective Air Force chaplain, will be ordained a priest on June 6 in New Orleans. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), the soon-to-be Father Duplantis shares how he discerned a vocation, the ways he hopes to provide pastoral care for Airmen and their families, and what life is like in his final year of formation at Notre Dame Seminary in “the city that care forgot.”
Published on: May 25, 2020Father Andrew Sioleti On COVID - 19
New York's veteran population, situated at the epicenter of the COVID-19 pandemic in America, has been hit hard since the outbreak in early March. Father Andrew Sioleti knows first-hand. As Chief of Chaplains at the VA's New York Harbor Healthcare Sytem, Father Sioleti has had his hands full, anointing the sick, hearing confessions, and bringing Holy Communion as well as counseling, and support to afflicted veterans and civilians alike, their families, and health care workers, all the while overseeing a staff of nearly a dozen chaplains serving the system's medical centers in Manhattan and Brooklyn and a community living center in Queens. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Servies, USA (AMS), Father Sioleti, who serves with AMS faculties and endorsement, shares his experiences caring for the ill, their loved ones, and doctors and nurses on the front lines, and his vision of hope amidst so much chaos and suffering, physical and spiritual.
Published on: May 15, 2020Father Tony K. Mensah On COVID - 19
Catholic chaplains in the nation's VA medical centers are on the front lines in the fight against COVID-19. Since the disease claimed the life of its first VA patient in mid-March, the death toll has climbed sharply. As of Easter Monday, April 13, more than 240 VA patients and several VA health care workers across the country have died of the disease. In New York City, the epicenter of the pandemic, the James J. Peters Medical Center has been overrun with COVID-19 patients, and dozens there have died over the past few weeks. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Tony K. Mensah, the hospital's chief chaplain, shares how he and fellow chaplains are coping as they provide spiritual care to the patients, their families, and the doctors and nurses taking care of the sick.
Published on: April 16, 2020Dr. Heather C. Robertson On Addiction Among Military Personnel
The military lifestyle, with its unique culture, frequent deployments and permanent changes of station (PCS), triggers ongoing stress for those who serve and their families. All too often, that stress leads to alcohol and drug addiction among military personnel, particularly after they are discharged or retire and no longer subject to zero-tolerance policies and random testing. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), Dr. Heather C. Robertson joins us by phone from New York, where she is an Associate Professor of Counselor Education at St. John's University. Having researched the problem of addiction in the military, Dr. Robertson shares her findings and where to find help for those in need.
Published on: March 31, 2020Admiral Joyce Johnson On Coronavirus
The U.S. Military is on the frontlines of America's war with what is now its worst enemy--the coronavirus and the potentially deadly disease it can cause, COVID-19. The Defense Department is providing millions of N95 respirator masks and more than a dozen testing labs, Army scientists are hard at work on developing a vaccine, the Navy is preparing hospital ships for New York and California, the Air Force has evacuated U.S. citizens stranded on foreign soil, and the National Guard has been deployed in states around the country. And with the military stationed around the world in hard-hit countries such as Italy, Spain, and South Korea, and states including Washington, New York, California and Louisiana, military personnel are at least as susceptible as anyone to infection. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, we learn more about this "invisible enemy" from Rear Admiral Dr. Joyce Johnson, USN (Ret.), a physician and infectious disease epidemiologist whose last duty assignment before retiring at the rank of rear admiral, upper half, was Director of Health and Safety for the U.S. Coast Guard. Dr. Johnson, a devout Catholic, serves on the AMS Finance Council.
Published on: March 24, 2020Father Alejandro De Jesus On Veteran Suicide
Suicide among U.S. Veterans is a persistent problem that continues to vex VA health professionals and chaplains alike. According to the latest figures, at least 60,000 veterans died by suicide between 2008 and 2017. That's nearly ten times the number of American military personnel killed since 9/11 in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan combined, and even more than the total number killed throughout the entire Vietnam War. And the data show the problem is only getting worse, as vets cope with the psychological and spiritual repercussions of combat. Those include conditions ranging from posttraumatic stress to depression, addiction, divorce, and moral injury. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Alejandro J. DeJesus, a chaplain at the Audie L. Murphy Memorial VA Medical Center in San Antonio, joins us by phone from Texas to discuss this alarming trend, what he and other Catholic VA chaplains are doing, and how you can help if you know a vet at high risk.
Published on: March 5, 2020Linda & Steve Jaramillo
Linda & Steve Jaramillo by Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA
Published on: March 2, 2020Tom McNew On Catholic Radio
Since 1997, Catholic radio in the United States has grown from just seven stations to more than 500, becoming a powerful and effective voice for the Church. Catholic radio stations broadcast the New Evangelization to millions throughout the nation and beyond U.S. borders, and they consistently receive conversion stories and testimonies on the power of Catholic radio to teach the faith and draw listeners ever closer to Christ. Among those listeners are both civilian and military populations. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (www.milarch.org), retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel Tom McNew, a 27-year-veteran, shares how he started Armor of God Radio--KOOV FM 106.9--in Kempner, TX, serving more than 50,000 Catholics based at Fort Hood. Listen to Armor of God radio, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at armorofgodradio.com.
Published on: February 24, 2020Ms. Elizabeth Tomlin On Women's Ministry
Are you interested in connecting with other women who share your Catholic faith, interests, and everyday concerns? If so, go online and order the new book, Joyful Momentum, by Elizabeth A. Tomlin. In the paperback, just published by Ave Maria Press, Ms. Tomlin shows you how you can start, expand, strengthen, or retool an existing women’s group or ministry in your own Catholic parish. Whether you want to start a spiritual book club or a group for moms with young children, retool an existing ministry for moms who work outside their homes, or revitalize a languishing prayer group or committee, you may feel underqualified and overwhelmed when first facing the challenges. Joyful Momentum provides the tools you need to get started, including “Momentum Builders” that will give you the confidence to do what needs to be done. Ms. Tomlin has plenty of experience to draw on. A military wife and mother of three, she is General Counsel to the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, and past president of the Military Council of Catholic Women. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese, she offers a sneak preview of how the book can help jumpstart women's ministry in your parish.
Published on: February 4, 2020Professor Joseph Capizzi On Just War Theory
The Fifth Commandment tells us, "thou shalt not kill." Yet, killing is integral to warfare. How, then, can war be justified? Philosphers have grappled with that question for centuries. Saint Augustine, a Fourth Century Catholic thinker, developed a theory of "just war" that remains influential in the postmodern era. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Catholic University of America Theology Professor Dr. Joseph Cipazzo, Ph.D., explores Saint Augustine's "just war" theory, and how it applies to current-day conflicts.
Published on: January 27, 2020Father Eric Albertson, CH (COL), USA, on Serving in Harm's Way
Military chaplains often accompany the men and women they serve into the worst of circumstances. Father Eric Albertson, CH (COL), USA, knows all too well. On Nov. 11, 2004--Veterans Day--Father Albertson was accompanying fellow soldiers across Iraq's western desert in Al Anbar Province when their Humvee hit a roadside bomb. Father Albertson was knocked out and suffered a severe concussion. He recovered and went on to receive the Purple Heart for his injuries in combat. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Albertson, a U.S. Army chaplain for more than 26 years, shares his story, and he explains why it is so important for military chaplains, though unarmed, to go in harm's way.
Published on: January 14, 2020Dr. Eileen A. Dombo on Moral Injury
Any way you look at it, the U.S.-led War on Terror has been a costly venture: a half-million lives lost so far, including nearly seven-thousand U.S. Military personnel killed in action, and more than seven trillion in U.S. tax dollars spent fighting the enemies of freedom and the values we hold dear. And while some 50,000 American service members and veterans bear scars from the physical wounds of combat in the nation's longest war, many also nurse bruises to the soul - scars of "moral injury," a condition that grows when one commits an act that goes against his or her deepest-held values. Battlefields are fertile ground for moral injury, because those deployed must make snap life-or-death decisions that don't always turn out to be the right choices with sometimes devastating consequences. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Dr. Eileen A. Dombo, PhD, LICSW, Associate Professor and Assistant Dean at the National Catholic School of Social Service, explains what moral injury is, how it differs from post traumatic stress, and ways the afflicted can seek healing to what experts have described as the "signature wound" of the current generation of veterans.
Published on: December 18, 2019Tim Moriarty
"The Field Afar" is a new feature-length documentary film about Vietnam War hero Father Vincent R. Capodanno airing on ABC TV stations nationwide through the Christmas holidays. Check listings for showings in your area, or purchase a DVD, at thefieldafar.com. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, film creator Tim Moriarty shares how the film came about, tracing the life of the Maryknoll priest from his upbringing in Staten Island, NY, to his death on a Vietnam battlefield rushing unarmed to the aid of U.S. Marines under ambush, his posthumous Medal of Honor award, and his Cause for Canonization now under review by the Holy See's Congregation for the Causes of Saints. As Tim explains, "The Field Afar" is about the power of courage and compassion, even in the face of life's most harrowing events. The life of Father Capodanno speaks to all human beings about the human capacity for goodness. In a world growing ever more weary with cynicism, this is a story to renew the spirit.
Published on: December 6, 2019Ed And Dolly Wilson
For more than thirty years, retired U.S. Army officer Ed Wilson and his wife Dolly have been active in the American military Catholic community at Stuttgart, Germany. Among other volunteer activities, they have organized travel for military Catholics to the annual Pèlerinage Militaire International, or International Military Pilgrimage, in Lourdes, France, where the Americans join military members from other nations in prayer and fellowship. On Oct. 26, the Wilsons were invested in the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, the successor of a Crusades-era military force now engaged primarily in charitable activities in the Holy Land. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, the Wilsons reflect on their service to the Chruch and how their life in Germany has given them a front-row seat on the eventful history of the past three decades in Europe.
Published on: November 15, 2019Admiral P. Stephen Stanley (1)
Much is known about the life and death of Father Vincent R. Capodanno, M.M., Servant of God. How the United States Navy Chaplain lieutentant was shot to death in Vietnam on Sept. 4, 1967, while rushing--unarmed--to the aid of U.S. Marines under enemy ambush. How he was posthumously awarded the nation's highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor. How the Holy See's Congregation for the Causes of Saints is now considering the cause for canonization of the Maryknoll priest from Staten Island, NY. Much less is known publicly about the favors and possible miracles received by some who have sought Father Capodanno's intercession through prayer. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Vice Admiral P. Stephen Stanley, USN (Retired), newly appointed chairman of the governing board of the Father Capodanno Guild, shares some of those incredible stories, and how you can support his cause.
Published on: November 8, 2019Triennial National Collection & AMS Appeal
At Sunday Masses the weekend of Nov. 9-10, most Catholic parishes throughout the United States will take up a second collection. Proceeds will go to support the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS). The AMS is the only Catholic jurisdiction responsible for providing pastoral care to Catholics in the U.S. Armed Services, VA Medical Centers, civilian service to the federal government beyond U.S. borders, and the families of these populations. Catholics who attend Sunday Mass in interdenominational base chapels where no second collections are taken my nonetheless contribute through the AMS Appeal. For more information on the National Collection, visit milarch.org/nationalcollection. For more information on the AMS Appeal, visit milarch.org/amsappeal. In this special edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Lt. Col. and Mrs. Greg Tomlin share from personal experience how AMS-endorsed Catholic priest-chaplains and pastoral programs are indispensable for the free exercise of Catholic faith in the U.S. Military.
Published on: October 22, 2019Chris Moore And Father Dennis Callahan
In 2017, Father Dennis Callan, S.V.D., needed a liver transplant after his nonalcoholic fatty liver disease developed into cirrhosis. Having served as a missionary in Taiwan for 18 years and in Korea for 16 years, the priest of the Society of the Divine Word had spent part of that time ministering to Catholics in the U.S. Army at Fort Humphreys in Pyeongtaek. When Army Warrant Officer Christopher Moore heard of Father's Callan's condition, he was led by the Holy Spirit to step forward. In an operation at Northwestern Medical Center in Chicago on July 12, 2017, the married father of two sons donated two-thirds of his liver to Father Callan. The surgery was such a success that Officer Moore was running a marathon just three months later, and Father Callan has long since returned to active ministry with a clean bill of health. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), Father Callan and Officer Moore come together again to talk about both the physical and spiritual aspects of their experience. Officer Moore, who runs every year on Team AMS in the annual Army Ten-Miler in Washington, D.C., to raise money for the Archdiocese, shares why he goes above and beyond the call of duty to support the free exercise of Catholic faith in the U.S. Military, even to the point of risking his life to save one priest at a time when Catholic priests and military chaplains are in short supply.
Published on: October 16, 2019Mr. Murphy Lierley - FOCCUS (1)
Living out a commitment to marriage can be difficult under the best of circumstances, let alone when one of the couple serves in the U.S. Military, with its transient nature, long deployments, and periods of separation. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Mr. Murphy Lierley (pictured with wife Kelli) offers guidance on how a military marriage can thrive in spite of challenging circumstances. Mr. Leirley is an international trainer for the marriage support group FOCCUS Inc., USA. FOCCUS stands for "Facilitate Open Caring Communication, Understanding, and Study." The organization teaches that communication and problem-solving are among the keys to a successful marriage.
Published on: September 24, 2019Andrew Sanchez
As a young dentist in the U.S. Army, Andrew Sanchez of Chalmette, LA, seemed to have it all. The Army had paid his way through dental school, and he was contemplating marriage to the woman he was dating. But something told the young Army officer he was meant for something more, and after a period of discernment, he left active duty and entered Notre Dame Seminary in New Orleans to become a priest and an Army chaplain. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Major Sanchez, who is now in the U.S. Army Reserve and scheduled to be ordained a transitional deacon next year, shares how the Holy Spirit inspired him to forsake a potentially lucrative career in dentistry to answer God's call, and why he is now pursuing the vocation within a vocation to serve those who serve.
Published on: September 17, 2019George Phillips - 2019
Captain George Phillips, USMC (Ret.), was among U.S. Marines with Father Vincent Capodanno, MM, Servant of God, when the Navy Lieutenant chaplain was killed by enemy gunfire in Vietnam’s Quế Sơn Valley on Sept. 4, 1967. Capt. Phillips now serves as chairman for the Father Capodanno Guild, which is overseeing the Maryknoll priest's Cause for canonization. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Capt. Phillips recounts the events of that fateful day, and explains what it was about Father Capodanno that qualifies him for sainthood.
Published on: August 27, 2019Admiral William J. Fallon (1)
The annual Pilgrimage for the Sea Services will be celebrated on Sunday, October 6, at the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, 339 South Seton Avenue, Emmitsburg, MD. The pilgrimage starts with Mass at 3:00 p.m. (EDST). Bishop Michael J. Barber, S.J., a retired U.S. Navy Reserve chaplain, will be the principal celebrant and homilist. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Admiral William J. Fallon, USN (Ret.), Chairman of the Pilgrimage Sponsoring Committee, talks about how the pilgrimage came to be, and what's in it for the faithful and those who serve our nation in the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Merchant Marines, and Public Health Service.
Published on: August 20, 2019Tim Mergen
A graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy and a captain pilot on active duty, Tim Mergen had a lot going for him, flying the C-146A "Wolfhound" out of Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico. But God's call to the priesthood proved too persistent for the up and coming officer from Wisconsin to ignore. So in 2014, he separated from active duty, took a demotion in rank to Second Lieutenant in the Air Force Reserve, and entered Mount Saint Mary's Seminary in Emmittsburg, MD, in hopes of returning to active duty one day as an Air Force chaplain. He is now well into his formational studies at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, scheduled to be ordained a priest in 2020. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Tim shares how he discovered his vocation and what it was about God's call that persuaded him to give up a promising military career path in order to be of pastoral service to those who serve in the Air Force.
Published on: July 26, 2019Sal Perez - Day Of Giving
On Sunday, July 21, 2019, the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), will celebrate the 34th anniversary of its founding by Pope Saint John Paul II. The AMS will mark the occasion by remembering in a special way the 182 Catholic priests currently on active duty in the U.S. Military. It will hold a "Day of Giving," providing the public an opportunity to support Catholic military chaplains. The hope is that generous benefactors will make at least 182 donations in support of the AMS mission, "Serving Those Who Serve," or one donation for every chaplain. Donations can be made at www.milarch.org/dayofgiving. The donation page will be open from 12 noon on Sunday, July 21, until 10:00 p.m. on Monday, July 22. That's 34 hours--one hour for every year the AMS has been in existence. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Advancement Director Sal Perez shares why it is so important for the Archdiocese to receive support from private donors, and how the money will be used to bring Christ to military Catholics and their families.
Published on: July 18, 2019Mrs. Tracey Harger
Mrs. Tracey Harger, Catholic Pastoral Life Coordinator at U.S. Army Garrison Hawaii, recently received the Medal of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), its highest honor. Mrs. Harger, wife of Col. Rick Harger, USA, was so honored for her exemplary moral character, fidelity to the teachings and mission of the Church, and devotion and service to the Catholic community. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese, Mrs. Harger tells us about her work among fellow military Catholics and what motivates her to volunteer above and beyond the call of duty in service to Christ.
Published on: June 26, 2019Col. Mike Thumm USMC (Ret.)
Each spring, the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), teams up with the Knights of Columbus (K of C) to send active-duty servicemen and women and veterans on a spiritual journey to Lourdes, where the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette in 1858. The annual "Warriors to Lourdes" journey affords participants the opportunity to experience the sacred site first-hand, dip into its healing spring waters, attend Mass, and participate in the Sacraments of Penance and the Anointing of the Sick. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Col. Mike Thumm, USMC (Ret.), and Master Knight of the Fourth Degree for the Archdiocese of Washington District, shares what it's like to make go with Warriors to Lourdes, and how current and former U.S. Military personnel and their spouses may sign up for next year's pilgrimage.
Published on: June 17, 2019John Elson - EWTN Producer
At 10:00 p.m. (EDST) on Wednesday, May 22, 2019, EWTN will broadcast the premiere of "Frontline Fathers"--an original EWTN documentary about Catholic U.S. Army chaplains and the practicing faithful at Camp Humphreys in South Korea. EWTN's cameras follow Fathers Paul A. Halladay, CH (MAJ), USA, and Joseph Campbell, CH (CPT), USA, as they go about their service to the faithful in the shadow of communist North Korea at a time of heightened tensions between the U.S. and North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un. In this edition of "Catholic Military Life," the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, EWTN producer John Elson takes us behind the scenes, sharing how the documentary came about and what the viewing public can expect to take away from it.
Published on: May 17, 2019Father Michael J. Cerrone III
Father Michael J. Cerrone, III, of the Diocese of Savannah, GA, gave 20 years of his life to the U.S. Army, 15 of them as a Catholic priest and chaplain. Now in retirement, Father Cerrone, a graduate of the Military Academy at West Point, is still going beyond the call of duty to support the free exercise of faith in the U.S. Military. He recently donated $50,000 to the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, in support of her mission "Serving Those Who Serve." In this edition of Catholic Military Life, Father Cerrone shares why it's so important to provide for the pastoral needs of Catholics in uniform, recounting some of his own experiences in the Army.
Published on: May 10, 2019Brett Family
On April 24, Father Frank Brett, Ph.D., a retired U.S. Army chaplain, was laid to rest on Chaplains Hill in Arlington National Cemetery. He was buried in the same grave as his brother, U.S. Navy Chaplain Father Bob Brett, who died a hero in the Vietnam War when a 122-millimeter rocket struck his trench moments after he passed up what would turn out to be his last chance to evacuate the battlefield--he gave his seat on a departing helicopter to a fellow serviceman. As the chopper rose and banked away from the trench, those on board heard the fatal blast. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, two nephews and a niece of the late brother priests sit down at a family gathering in Old Town Alexandria, VA, after the interment service, to talk about their uncles' incredible story. Lt. Col. Edward Rouse, USMC (Ret.), Ms. Debbie Brett Cherin, and Mr. Chris Lawlor tell how Father Frank Brett, who died in December of 2017 at the age of 86, came to be buried with his brother, who was 32 years old when killed in 1968. They explain that the remains of Father Bob Brett, originally buried in Pennsylvania, were removed to Arlington in 1998. When Father Frank died nearly 20 years later of soft-tissue sarcoma, a condition reportedly linked to herbicides used in Vietnam, he was cremated and the family kept his ashes in an urn pending approval of the burial at Arlington.
Published on: April 25, 2019Bishop Richard B. Higgins
Auxiliary Bishop Richard B. Higgins is soon to retire as Episcopal Vicar for Veterans Affairs. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese of the Military Services, USA, Bishop Higgins looks back on his 45 years in pastoral service to Catholics in the United States Military and those receiving treatment in the nation's VA Medical Centers. He retraces his unusual journey from growing up Catholic in Ireland to becoming a priest, joining the U.S. Air Force as a chaplain, and eventual ordination and service as a bishop. On a personal level, the retiring bishop shares his passion for, of all things, flying airplanes and riding motorcycles.
Published on: April 15, 2019Michelle Still Mehta
War heroes are generally made on the front lines, but what about the unsung heroes left behind--the spouses of the men and women who defend our nation in uniform? Those who put their own careers on hold to move between duty stations every two or three years or raise children as single parents while their significant others serve on lengthy deployments? Catholic author Michelle Still Mehta, Ph.D., is a consultant, coach, researcher, and writer specializing in military spouse employment. Her new book, "Silent Sacrifice on the Homefront," now available on Amazon, shares the real-life quests of military spouses to fit career with marriage, motherhood, and military life. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Dr. Mehta shares her own story as well as theirs, and she offers advice on how military spouses can better integrate their own career aspirations with married life in the service.
Published on: March 27, 2019Bishop - Elect William (Bill) Muhm
He first sensed a call to holy orders in the fourth grade, but it was not until after a four-year tour in the U.S. Navy followed by years in private business that Father William (Bill) Muhm, CHC, CAPT, USN (Ret.), came to his senses and entered seminary to become a Catholic priest. Now, on the heels of 20 years of service as Navy Chaplain, Father Muhm has been selected by the Holy See to be ordained as a new auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese for the Military Services (AMS), USA. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Bishop-Elect Muhm reflects on his faith journey and his new role as Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio's Episcopal Vicar for Europe and Asia.
Published on: March 12, 2019Bishop - Elect Joseph L. Coffey
Check out the latest edition of our podcast, Catholic Military Life. Father Joseph L. Coffey of Philadelphia, 58, pictured, has come a long way since he sold cars as a young man in Europe. On Jan. 22, 2019, Pope Francis named Father Coffee, a U.S. Navy Chaplain and Captain (Select), a new auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, (AMS). Bishop-Elect Coffey will be ordained on March 25 in a 2:00 p.m. Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, he joins us by telephone from the U.S. Marine Corps Recruit Depot in San Diego, retracing his incredible journey toward priesthood, the military chaplaincy, and episcopal ordination, and he explains how he'll serve as an auxiliary to Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio while still serving in the Navy.
Published on: February 22, 2019Casey Bustamante
One-point-three million men and women are now serving in the U.S. Military. The vast majority of them are young adults, and one in four is Catholic. How do Catholic young adult ministers reach so many of the faithful spread all over the world and on constant move between duty stations? It's up to Ms. Casey Bustamante, USAFR, Associate Director for Young Adult Ministry for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, (AMS). In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Ms. Bustamante shares how she tackles an enormous challenge.
Published on: February 8, 2019Steve Booth, Co - Sponsored Seminarian
With so many secularistic influences now competing for the hearts and minds of the young, rare indeed is the young man who hears God's call to both the Catholic priesthood and military chaplaincy. How does one discern a vocation amid so many worldly distractions? Mr. Steven Booth, a Co-Sponsored seminarian for both the Diocese of Fall River, MA, and the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, (AMS), is in the final 18 months of his five-year formation. He hopes to serve on active duty as a U.S. Navy chaplain. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only offical podcast of the AMS, Steven shares how he realized Christ was calling him to serve those who serve, and what his life is like on the journey to ordination.
Published on: January 28, 2019Father Bill Appel
How does a guy go from being a U.S. Marine Corps helicopter pilot, combat veteran, real estate investor, and eligible bachelor to a Catholic priest and Navy chaplain? Father Bill Appel, CHC, LT, USN, explains in this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.
Published on: January 10, 2019Father Longin Buhake
When Hurricane Michael made landfall in Florida's panhandle on Oct. 10, 2018, Tyndall Air Force Base suffered catastrophic damage. Tyndall is home to the 325th Fighter Wing--the "Checkertails"--and 55 F-22 "Raptor" jets, considered the world's most advanced fighter, most of which were flown to safety before Michael made landfall. The category 4 storm battered the 29-thousand acre base with top sustained winds of 155 miles per hour, leaving runways cluttered, hangars gnarled, bunkers battered, and, according an Air Force aerial assessment, nearly all of Tyndall’s 1,340 buildings, severely damaged. The base chapel lost its roof and will have to be demolished and rebuilt, says Father Longin Buhake, a civilian priest employed by the federal government to serve Tyndall’s Catholic population. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, (AMS), Father Buhake, who serves with AMS endorsement, tells of the long road to recovery. He shares what he’s doing in the meantime to bring the sacraments and pastoral care to Catholics who remain on base in makeshift quarters during cleanup, repair, and reconstruction operations.
Published on: December 12, 2018Ms. Mary Lavin
The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, (AMS), has officially kicked off its 2019 National Collection campaign. The collection, to be taken up in Catholic parishes throughout the United States at weekend Masses Nov. 9-10, 2019, will support pastoral care and ministry to Catholic families stationed worldwide in the U.S. Military, and Catholic patients in Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Centers throughout the country and in Guam and Puerto Rico. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Ms. Mary Lavin, Executive Director of Major Gifts and Planned Giving, shares how private support is critical to the Archdiocese's mission, "Serving Those Who Serve," and how you can help.
Published on: December 5, 2018Father Thomas S. Foley, Ch Capt USAF
The United States Air Force, like all other branches of the U.S. Military, is facing a desperate shortage of Catholic priests on active duty. Right now, only 55 priests are on active duty in the Air Force, serving a population of more than 78,000 Catholic airmen. That's one priest for every 1,425 airmen, not counting their families, and those Catholics are spread all over the United States and at bases overseas. It is the challenging task of Father Thomas S. Foley, Ch Capt USAF, to help make up the difference. Father Foley is an Air Force chaplain recruiter who travels the nation in search of qualified chaplain candidates to join the Air Force. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, he talks about the many difficulties and rewards of his work, and how he keeps the faith against long odds.
Published on: November 9, 2018Col. Chuck Gallina, USMC (Ret)
November 11 is Veterans Day, and this year, it also marks the 100th anniversary of the signing of the armistice that ended World War I. To commemorate the occasion, the Knights of Columbus (K of C) and the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, (AMS), will hold a ceremony including the celebration of Holy Mass. The commemoration will take place on Nov. 11, 2018 at the Saint John Paul II National Shrine, 3900 Harewood Road NE in Washington, D.C. The ceremony starts at 10:30 a.m. followed by Mass at 11:00 a.m. Archbishop William E. Lori of Baltimore, the K of C's Supreme Chaplain, will be the principal celebrant. His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Brolgio, Archbishop for the Military Services, will preach the homily. The start time for the Mass falls at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month--the same time in Paris that the armistice was signed by the allies and Germany ending "the war to end all wars" in 1918. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Col. Chuck Gallina, USMC Ret., shares details. Col. Gallina also talks about the May 2019 Warriors to Lourdes spiritual journey, and how wounded, ill, and active duty warriors and their companions may apply for all-expenses-paid or reduced-price slots on the journey, which is timed to coincide with the annual International Military Pilgrimage, which draws thousands of military personnel and veterans to Lourdes every spring. Col. Gallina explains how to apply and how much longer applications will be taken for next year's pilgrimage.
Published on: October 25, 2018Father David A. Daigle
As a Catholic U.S. Navy chaplain recruiter, Father David A. Daigle, CHC, LCDR, USN, has his work cut out for him. The Navy, like other branches of the U.S. armed forces, is confronting a desperate shortage of Catholic priests on active duty. Currently, only a few dozen active-duty Catholic Navy chaplains serve not only the entire Navy, but also the Marines and the Coast Guard as well as the U.S. Naval Academy. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Daigle talks about his efforts to relieve the shortage. Although responsible for recruiting chaplains of all faiths, Father Daigle, a priest of the Diocese of Bridgeport, CT, takes particular interest in finding Catholics called to Navy chaplaincy, and he shares some ideas about how military service can benefit not only the priests who serve, the Navy Chaplain Corps in general, and the faithful in uniform, but also any home diocese or religious community that releases a priest for a period of military service.
Published on: October 12, 2018Ann Schmalstieg - Gold Star Wife
In 2009, Ms. Ann Schmalstieg married a Marine in the Catholic Church. Her husband, Justin Schmalstieg, Gy Sgt, USMC, was killed in action in Afghanistan barely a year later, just a few months after his conversion to Catholicism. On Dec. 15, 2010, Sgt. Schmalstieg and his team were returning to base after a period of intense fighting. Following multiple attempts at crossing a canal and facing the imminent threat of ambush, Sgt. Schmalstieg lost his life clearing a crossing point when an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) went off. His sacrifice saved the lives of fellow Marines who were with him that day, leaving Ms. Schmalstieg a grieving widow. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Ms. Schmalstieg, of Beaver Falls, PA, shares how she deals with her grief through art. Her work will be on exhibit from Oct 29 to Nov. 29 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C. The working title of the exhibit is "Requiem." The title takes its name from the Requiem Mass--a funeral Mass, or Mass for the dead.
Published on: September 25, 2018Father Christopher Doering
The priesthood, and military chaplaincy, are both, in some ways, like a marriage: the challenge is to live out one's commitment, even when it's not fun or easy. That's been among the many insights Father Christopher Doering has gained in living out his priestly vocation, from his time in the seminary in the 1990s through his current assignment at Fort Rucker. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Servies, USA, (AMS), Father Doering shares some of the highs and lows of his experience answering God's call. Ordained in 1998 for the Archdiocese of Chicago, Father Doering entered the Army in 2010 and has since deployed twice to Afghanistan and served at various locations throughout the eastern and southeastern U.S. During that time, he's crossed a few deserts, both earthen and spiritual, only to find blessings and grace even in the most difficult of circumstances.
Published on: September 11, 2018Father Mark Bristol
The process of becoming a Catholic U.S. Military chaplain is a spiritual journey that typically takes eight or more years to complete. Not only does the chaplain candidate spend five years in seminary. The Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, (AMS) requires him to spend three years in his home diocese doing pastoral work and gaining valuable experience as a priest before it will endorse him for active-duty chaplaincy. Father Mark Bristol, LT, USNR, who was ordained in 2016 for the Diocese of Brooklyn, NY, is currently in the third year of his civilian pastoral assignment at Saint Anastasia Catholic Church in Douglastown, Queens, New York. Father Bristol, who served in the Navy for five years before entering the seminary, hopes to go back on active duty next summer. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Father Bristol shares his thoughts on going back on active duty in the Navy, where currently, only 33 priests serve more than 80,000 Catholic sailors and their families. With so few chaplains to provide pastoral care for so many people, Father Bristol knows he has his work cut out for him.
Published on: August 29, 2018Father Curtiss Dwyer
The U.S. Marine Corps motto is "Semper Fidelis," which means "Always Faithful." But what does "faith" really mean to those who serve? Father Curtiss Dwyer, CHC, LT, USN, serves as a chaplain at Marine Corps Base Quantico. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Dwyer joins us by phone to share how he goes about his ministry to The Few. The Proud. The Marines. Father Dwyer also recounts how he discovered his priestly vocation, and the "vocation within a vocation" to volunteer as a Navy chaplain, and he shares some of his experiences since coming aboard, including a 10-month deployment to the Persian/Arabian Gulf during which he hopscotched between ships by helicopter to bring the sacraments to the faithful in uniform at sea.
Published on: August 14, 2018Chaplain Candidate 2nd Lt. Tyler Harris
In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), U.S. Air Force 2nd Lt. Tyler Harris recounts how he first sensed a vocation to become a priest and a military chaplain way back in 2001 while he was climbing the enlisted ranks. But it took Tyler many years, including time spent serving as a chaplain's assistant in Kuwait and Afghanistan, and one false start in seminary, before he finally committed himself to God's call. Now, if all goes as planned, he will be "Father Harris" in 2020 and "Chaplain Harris" in 2023 following a period of pastoral service in his home Diocese of Monterey, Calif. Lt. Harris shares the struggles he encountered in discerning his vocation, the inspiring influence of his mentor, the late Bishop Richard Garcia of Monterey, and his first-hand experience, as a chaplain's assistant, of the effects of the Catholic chaplain shortage in the Air Force, where only 60 priests remain on active duty, serving 80,000 Catholic Airmen--approximately one priest for every 1300--spread worldwide. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Alyssa M. Akers.)
Published on: July 19, 2018Father Matthew Whitehead
On Thursday, May 31, 2018, three former Anglican U.S. Military chaplains were ordained Catholic priests for the Personal Ordinariate for the Chair of St. Peter. The Ordinariate was erected by the Holy See in 2012 to provide a way for groups of former Anglicans to become Catholic, while retaining elements of their worship traditions and spiritual heritage. All three newly ordained Catholics will continue to serve as military chaplains, but with endorsement and faculties from the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS). One of the priests is Father Matthew Whitehead, CH (CPT), USA, now stationed at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the AMS, Father Whitehead re-traces his spiritual journey, beginning when he was an Evangelical, through his ministry as an Anglican priest, and the process of discernment that ultimately led him to the Catholic priesthood. He reflects on some of the vast differences in teaching between Evangelical and Catholic doctrine, and how he has come to hold fast to the tenets of the Catholic faith, including the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist, the power to pray for the faithful departed, and the role of Mary, Mother of God, in eternal Salvation.
Published on: July 12, 2018Michelle Nash & Elizabeth Tomlin
Do Catholic women have a distinct role to play in bringing the Good News of Jesus Christ to U.S. Military installations, and if so, what is that role? In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), Michelle Nash and Elizabeth Tomlin share how their vast and growing organization, the Military Council of Catholic Women (MCCW), provides unique support to their military parish communities. Ms. Nash, current MCCW president, joins us by phone from Huntsville, Alabama, and Ms. Tomlin, past president, from Washington, D.C. Both draw from their own personal experiences as military wives, moms, and witnesses to Christ to explain what makes MCCW membership and activity meaningful and relevant to the practice of the Catholic faith in military settings worldwide.
Published on: June 27, 2018Father Joseph Reffner
Recently ordained Catholic Father Joseph W. Reffner, CH (CPT), USA, began his spiritual journey as an Evangelical. He later became a priest in the Anglican Church, and on May 31, 2018, was ordained a Catholic priest for the Personal Ordinariate of the Chair of St. Peter. So how does a married man with five children find acceptance in a flock accustomed to single shepherds living out promises of celibacy? In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Reffner shares the story of his spiritual awakening, his newfound life as member of the Catholic clergy while continuing to provide pastoral service to those who serve in the U.S. Military, and his advice to non-Catholics thinking about becoming Catholic.
Published on: June 21, 2018Joe Pak - 2
With Catholic priests on active duty in short supply, deacons have a role to play in serving those who serve. Deacon Joe Pak, a native of South Korea, is one of two deacons incardinated in the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS). In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the official podcast of the AMS, Deacon Pak recounts how he came to discern his vocation in response to a visit to South Korea by His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D., Archbishop for the Military Services. Deacon Pak shares how he and fellow Deacon Roy Mellon contribute to providing pastoral care to Catholic U.S. Military families. He describes what it is like to live a life of faith in the shadow of a communist regime on a peninsula long divided by differences left unresolved from the 1950-53 Korean War, and how he believes Catholics can support current efforts to achieve a lasting peace.
Published on: June 7, 2018Father Robert R. Cannon
Faced with a chronic shortage of Catholic priests to serve on active duty as chaplains in the U.S. Military, the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), is looking for volunteers from dioceses across the country and abroad. In June, the AMS will host its fourth, all-expenses paid retreat for already-ordained priests discerning whether they are called to the "vocation within a vocation." In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official AMS podcast, Chancellor Father Colonel Robert R. Cannon, USAF (Ret.), shares how the retreat experience will give participating priests first-hand exposure to what it's like "Serving Those Who Serve."
Published on: May 23, 2018Col. Chuck Gallina, USMC (Ret.)
The 2018 Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage for Non-Wounded, Wounded, Ill or Injured Military Personnel during the 60th Annual International Military Pilgrimage will take place May 15-22, 2018. The theme for the 60th PMI is Pacem in Terris (Peace on Earth). The pilgrimage, sponsored by the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), and the Knights of Columbus, is the latest event in a long history of both organizations’ involvement in Lourdes and service to the military. In this edition ofcATHOLIC MILITARY LIFE, the only official podcast of the AMS, Col. ChuCK Gallinia, USMC (Ret.), explains how military personnel, their designated caregivers and volunteers will travel to the Marian shrine for a time of rest, prayer and healing. The retreat will consist of a number of spiritual events, including special Masses, Faith and Fellowship Sessions, a Marian Procession, Adoration and Blessing of the Sick, a visit to the baths at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, and an International Opening Ceremony and Candlelight Vigil that draw tens of thousands of troops to the sacred shrine every year. “We will journey and pray with pilgrims from around the world,” says the Most Rev. Timothy P. Broglio, Archbishop for the Military Services. “It will be an occasion to raise our hearts and minds to the Prince of Peace and beg for an increase in understanding and a decrease in strife.”
Published on: May 9, 2018Father Matthias Rendon
The U.S. Military draws Catholic priests to serve as chaplains from a variety of sources, including dioceses throughout the United States and beyond as well as religious orders. Father Matthias Rendon, OFM, CH (CAPT), USA, is a Franciscan who has spent almost a decade providing pastoral care to Catholics in the U.S. Army. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Rendon shares his life as "a contemplative in action," serving those who serve. He tells how he was called from the monasteries of the Franciscans, an order whose main mission is to take care of sacred sites in the Holy Land, to the "vocation within a vocation" accompanying the men and women in uniform on their journey of faith while defending our country. And he explains why his 2011-2012 deployment to Afghanistan was perhaps the best year of his ministry so far, in spite of difficult circumstances.
Published on: April 25, 2018Father Matthew Pawlikowski
With the nation's attention focused on U.S. Senate confirmation hearings for Secretary of State nominee and CIA Director Mike Pompeo, one of Mr. Pompeo's classmates from the Military Academy at West Point is Father Matthew Pawlikowski, CH (COL), USA. Father Pawlikowsi, who was also a classmate of U.S. Army Secretary Dr. Mark T. Esper, joins us in the latest edition of Catholic Military Life, the official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA. While expressing pride in his associations with former classmates, Father Pawlikowski focuses on the rewards and challenges of his current role as Command Chaplain at his alma mater, ministering to some of the nation's future leaders. Father Pawlikowski addresses what some Catholics and others view as the apparent conflict between Christ's message of peace and the Army's commitment to the military defense of our Nation and its values. Regularly seen praying the rosary on the sidelines of Army football games, Father Pawlikowski also explores the meaning of prayer in all its different forms.
Published on: April 12, 2018Father Joseph Deichert
With 24 years under his belt as a Catholic U.S. Air Force Chaplain, Father Joseph Deichert, Ch Col USAF, has ministered to a full generation of Catholic Airmen and their families. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Deichert, a priest of the Diocese of Bismarck, N.D., talks about his many experiences "Serving Those Who Serve" everywhere from Iraq to Hawaii, and how the devout remain firm in the faith in spite of secularist pressures.
Published on: March 26, 2018Father Eric Albertson Podcast
In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Eric Albertson, CH (COL), USA, shares how he earned the Purple Heart during frontline combat in Iraq, serving those who serve. Father Albertson carries forward a rich legacy of distinguished military service above and beyond the call of duty on the part of Catholic priests. Since the Civil War, only five U.S. Military chaplains have received the Medal of Honor, the nation's highest military decoration. All five were Catholic priests. Father Albertson reflects on the faith that drives this prominent record of priestly service, and why it is so important for military chaplains, though noncombatants, to accompany warriors to the frontlines, not stay "behind the wire" on secure outposts when tensions flare on the battlefield.
Published on: March 14, 2018Father Christopher Armstrong
Like all Catholic dioceses, the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), staffs a Tribunal to adjudicate marriage annulment petitions and other matters of canon law. But unlike any other U.S. diocese, the AMS encompasses the entire world, serving those who serve in the U.S. Military wherever they are stationed or deployed. With a population of 1.8 million Catholics, the AMS has enormous responsibility, and its Tribunal stays busy. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the official podcast of the AMS, Judicial Vicar Father Christopher Armstrong, J.C.D., shares how the Tribunal goes about its work handling some of the most sensitive matters facing practicing Catholics in the U.S. Military.
Published on: February 20, 2018Father Hermes Losbañes
Father Hermes Losbañes, CH (MAJ), USA, has his work cut out for him. He is a chaplain recruiter for the U.S. Army. Specifically, Father Losbañes recruits Catholic priests to serve on active duty. The Army is suffering a desperate shortage of Catholic chaplains. Right now, only 89 are serving some 115,000 Catholic active-duty soldiers. That's one priest for every 1,300 Catholic soldiers spread around the world, not counting their families. The shortage has been growing for decades due to attrition. Catholic Army chaplains are retiring faster than they can be replaced. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, the official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Losbañes shares how he is working diligently to fill the gap, and how you can help.
Published on: February 12, 2018Father Gary Studniewski
Priests endorsed by the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), to serve as military chaplains are ""on loan," both to the Military Archdiocese and to the military itself. They come from home dioceses all over the country, and many of them undergo formation and are ordained through the "Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program," a vocations partnership between the AMS and their home dioceses or religious order. Before and after their military service, they serve as priests in their home dioceses. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, Father Gary Studniewski of the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C., shares his vocational journey, starting out as an officer in the U.S. Army through his priestly discernment, experience as a seminarian, and return to the Army as a chaplain. Father Studniewski, who recently retired from the Army, is now Administrator at St. Peter's Catholic Church on Capitol Hill in Washington.
Published on: January 29, 2018Father Larry Smith, S.J- 1
Father Larry Smith, S.J., entertains with stories from his twelve years on active duty as a U.S. Navy chaplain. He tells of counseling U.S. Marines as they headed into combat for Desert Storm, and what it was like aboard the first U.S. Navy warship to enter the Black Sea after the fall of the iron curtain. Father Smith, a gifted story-teller, now serves at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling.
Published on: January 18, 2018Dr. Mark Moitoza, Vice Chancellor For Evangelization
Living out a commitment to marriage while on active duty has its unique rewards and challenges. In order to support married Catholics in the U.S. Military, the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), will hold its first-ever Catholic Marriage Enrichment Retreat in February 2018. AMS Vice Chancellor of Evangelization Dr. Mark Moitoza shares how the AMS hopes to make the retreat a twice-yearly event for Catholic servicemen and women. He also tells about some of the other ways in which the AMS Office of Evangelization is bringing pastoral services to those who serve. And he delves into a topic of immense timely importance to post-deployment warriors: the "bruise of the soul" known as moral injury, a condition in which they struggle with the idea that that they betrayed their own values while defending the cause of freedom.
Published on: December 20, 2017A Chat With Jose Amaya
Today, Catholics of all ages find themselves in a new era: a time of constant change and growing cultural diversity. In his Apostolic Exhortation the Joy of the Gospel, Pope Francis tells us that we are to be a Church that “goes forth.” For this reason, the Bishops of United States are launching the initiative the V Encuentro of Hispanic/Latino Ministry under the theme “Missionary Disciples: Witnesses of God’s Love." In this edition of Catholic Military, Mr. Jose Amaya, Director of Faith Formation for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), talks about what the AMS is doing for V Encuentro. How can the Archdiocese better respond to the Hispanic/Latino presence in the U.S. Military? How will the AMS help strengthen the ways in which Hispanics/Latinos can respond to the call to the New Evangelization as missionary disciples in service to the Church? How can Hispanic/Latino members of the Military participate in this exciting initiative? Mr. Amaya explains in this edition of Catholic Military Life.
Published on: December 14, 2017A Chat With Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson
In this special edition of Catholic Military Life, the only official podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson of the Knights of Columbus joins us by telephone from his office at Supreme Headquarters in New Haven, Connecticut. Mr. Anderson is a 2017 recipient of the Medal of the Archdiocese, the AMS's highest award, in recognition of the outstanding contributions by the K of C to the Archdiocesan mission to serve those who serve The Medal of the AMS is presented no more than five times a year. For a candidate to qualify, two important elements determine the selection: (1) the candidate’s contributions to the AMS religious program must be outstanding, without recompense, over an extended period of time, and they must clearly surpass the contributions of all others; and (2) the candidate’s character, behavior, and reputation must be outstanding in all respects and motivated by religious values; moreover, the candidate must practice religion faithfully and be faithful to official Church teaching, provide a good example to others, be held in high esteem by associates, and if married, married in the Church. Under Supreme Knight Anderson’s leadership, the K of C has contributed substantial support to the AMS, including its “Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program,” a vocations partnership between the AMS and cooperating dioceses and religious communities around the country. In a Sept. 21, 2017, letter to Mr. Anderson, Archbishop Broglio explained why he had been selected to receive the medal this year: “As you know, since 1998 the Knights of Columbus have contributed more than $2,535,146 to the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA (AMS), in support of its many programs and services including, but not limited to, the Vocations and Co-Sponsored Seminarian Programs, the Annual Benefit, the International Military Pilgrimageto Lourdes, and most recently, to funding for the first Catholic Military Marriage Retreat. “I am grateful to you and the Knights of Columbus for your continued and generous support, without which the AMS would not have been able to finance the flourishing Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program. I am pleased to report that this fall the AMS will have 42 co-sponsored seminarians representing 26 dioceses and studying in 19 seminaries across the U.S. There is no other program like the AMS Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program and there is no other partnership like that between the AMS and the Knights of Columbus in support of the mission, ‘Serving Those Who Serve.’ “However, the partnership has never been limited to economic assistance. Brother Knights have been the backbone of so many military Catholic communities, lent assistance in discernment retreats, cooked for the annual Labor Day Gathering of co-sponsored seminarians, and manifested the virtues of Catholic gentlemen for all to admire and imitate.”
Published on: November 17, 2017A Chat With Father Brian Klingele 1
With tensions between the U.S. and North Korea at their highest point in decades, Father Brian Klingele, Ch, Capt, USAF, shares his experiences serving as a chaplain at Kunsan Air Base in South Korea. How do the faithful in the U.S. Air Force deal spiritually with the possibility of another hot war on the Korean Peninsula? How does the believer in uniform stay focused and keep peace of mind while North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un spews his bellicose rhetoric? How does the renewed threat of a nuclear holocaust affect the practice of Catholic faith in the crosshairs of Kim's missiles? Father Klingele, who began a one-year tour of duty in South Korea several months ago, lives with these questions every day, both in his own spiritual life and in his ministry to U.S. Airmen and their families. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, Father Klingele holds forth.
Published on: November 9, 2017A Chat With Seminarian Peter St. George
Seminarian and prospective U.S. Navy Chaplain Peter St. George talks about his experience of the Lord's call to be a priest and chaplain in service to those who serve. Peter walks us through the process of his own discernment, shaing some of his most personal struggles. How does a young man commit himself to a life of celibacy? How does he deal with loneliness and the prospect of a life without a wife and children? What is it about giving one's life to Christ that makes the sacrifices worthwhile? What is his advice to other young men considering following the same path? How can the faithful show their support for seminarians?
Published on: October 24, 2017Clinical Chaplain Father John O'Grady talks about healing the wounded.
At 72, Father John (Frank) O'Grady, CH (LTC), USA, is one of the oldest chaplains--if not THE oldest--serving in the U.S. Military. During his long, productive military career, Father O'Grady, a native of Sligo, Ireland, has served everywhere from Korea to Germany. His exemplary ministry at the Pentagon in the days after the 9/11 attack earned him an Army Commendation Medal for his “leadership, dedication to duty and calm professional demeanor during a time of extreme crisis,” enabling him to “flawlessly perform” his duties. So effective has been his pastoral service to those who serve, Father O'Grady was called out of retirement to continue in the position he has held for the past seven years: clinical chaplain at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center. In that role, he has helped many servicemen and women wounded in battle find their way to physical, mental, and spiritual healing and recovery. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, Father O'Grady talks about his experiences on the hospital wards with some of America's fallen heroes.
Published on: October 13, 2017CML - Jay Horning
Reverend Mr. Jay Horning, a prospective U.S. Army chaplain and transitional deacon from the Diocese of Fort Wayne, IN, shares his story of how he converted to Catholicism and entered Mount St. Mary's Seminary in Emmitsburg, MD, to become a priest. Rev. Mr. Horning is scheduled to be ordained a priest in June.
Published on: September 26, 2017CML - Father Aidan Logan, O.C.S.O-
Now that it's back-to-school season, Father Aidan Logan, O.C.S.O., talks about a huge increase in the number of young men entering the seminary to become Catholic priests and military chaplains. Among the several hundred prospective priests entering American seminaries for the first time this fall, at least seven plan, after ordination, to go on active duty as chaplains. Additionally, another four U.S. Catholic seminarians in various advanced stages of formation have decided this year to pursue military chaplaincy, and have made a commitment to “serve those who serve” as priests in the armed forces. That brings to 11 the total number of Catholic men embarking this year on the vocational journey toward military chaplaincy, bringing the total number in formation to 43--up from just seven in 2008.
Published on: September 15, 2017Catholic Military Life - Father Vincent R. Capodanno, MM, Servant Of God
Sept. 4 marks the 50th anniversary of the death of Vietnam War hero and U.S. Navy Chaplain Father Vincent R. Capodanno, MM, Servant of God. Ever faithful to his vocation, Father Capodanno, a Maryknoll priest from Staten Island, N.Y., died in 1967 at the age of 38 while rushing to administer the sacraments to Marines under enemy ambush in Vietnam’s Quế Sơn Valley. Father Capodanno received the Medal of Honor posthumously on January 7, 1969. Since his death, there have been numerous reports of favors following intercessory prayers to the hero chaplain, and the Catholic Church is now considering his Cause for Sainthood. In this edition of Catholic Military Life, three prominent figures involved with support of Father Capodanno's Cause talk about his great sacrifice for the Marines under his pastoral care. They are Mr. George Phillips, a retired U.S. Marine who served with Father Capodanno and now chairs the Father Capodanno Guild; Father Commander Daniel Mode, a U.S. Navy Chaplain and author of "The Grunt Padre," Father Capodanno's biography; and Ms. Mary Preece, Vice-Postulator of the Cause. Among topics discussed: the premiere of "Called and Chosen - Father Vincent R. Capodanno," a new film on the life and death of the priest in combat boots. The new film will air for the first time on EWTN Aug. 30 at 10:00 p.m. (EDST) following an 8:00 p.m. panel discussion with Father Mitch Pacwa, S.J., and Mr. Phillips, Ms. Preece, and Mr. Jim Kelty, producer of the film. In this podcast, Mr. Phillips, Father Mode, and Ms. Preece also talk about the upcoming annual Mass for Father Capodanno, which will be celebrated by His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D., Archbishop for the Military Services, USA, on Sept. 5 at 6:30 p.m. (EDST) in the crypt of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington, D.C.
Published on: August 8, 2017CML - 2017 - 03 - 29 - Fr. Brian Kane
What is it like bringing the sacraments and the good news of Jesus Christ to men and women on the front lines of combat? Father Lieutenant Colonel Brian Kane, a U.S. Army chaplain in the Nebraska National Guard, shares his war experiences from Iraq's Anbar Province in 2005. And he recalls how things had changed in the war-torn country when he returned to Iraq for a second deployment in 2010. Father Kane considers the what if any effects secularization has had on the U.S. armed forces, and he reflects on the tension between preaching a gospel of peace in an active war zone. Father Kane serves in the military with endorsement and faculties from the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA.
Published on: July 20, 2017A conversation with Father Tom Hoar, S.S.E., priest and minister to U.S. Navy submariners
In this latest edition of Catholic Military Life--a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA--Father Tom Hoar, S.S.E., talks about his vocation as a contract priest serving Catholic submariners at the U.S. Naval Submarine Base New London in Groton, Conn. Enduring long stretches underwater in close quarters without an active duty chaplain to celebrate MasS, Catholic submariners face a constant test of their Catholic faith in the absence of regular access to the sacraments. For some, the temptation to find comfort in spiritually unhealthy vices can be overwhelming at times. Father Hoar shares how, in his decade of ministry to sailors, he has worked on helping some conquor addictions to gambling, the internet, and pornography. Father Hoar also recounts his experience conducting a retreat aboard a guided missible cruiser in the Pacific and a stint at Naval Station Guantánamo Bay.
Published on: July 6, 2017A conversation with Auxiliary Bishop Neal J. Buckon
Bishop Buckon, Archbishop Timothy Broglio's Episcopal Vicar for Military Installations in the Western United States, holds forth on a wide range of issues, from his experiences as a U.S. Army Chaplain in Iraq to the state of religious freedom in the Military.
Published on: June 15, 2017Father Robert Bruno Talks About Preserving Religious Freedom at the U.S. Air Force Academy
In this latest edition of Catholic Military Life--a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA--Retired U.S. Air Force Chaplin Father (Col.) Robert Bruno, OFM, tells how he worked with the Air Force from 2009 to 2014 to preserve the free exercise of religion at the Air Force Academy as secularists waged an all-out campaign to suppress religious freedom and eliminate the phrase "so help me God" from the cadet honor pledge. Thanks to a new program Father Bruno helped launch, the right to the freedom of religion is alive and well at the Air Force Academy!
Published on: June 2, 2017Editor chats about newly published journal of Catholic Civil War chaplain
In the latest edition of "Catholic Military Life"--a podcast of the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA--Pat Hayes tells the fascinating story of a Redemptorist Catholic priest who served on the confederate side during the American Civil War. Father James Sheeran, C.Ss.R., was chaplain to the 14th Louisiana Regiment of the Confederacy. With historic confederate monuments now coming down in New Orleans, the topic is particularly timely. Irish-born Sheeran (1817-1881) was one of only a few dozen Catholic chaplains commissioned for the Confederacy and one of only two who kept a journal. Mr. Hayes has now edited and published Father Sheeran's journal in a new volume, called "The Civil War Diary of Father James Sheeran." (Catholic University Press of America, 2016.) Highlighting his exploits from August 1, 1862 through April 24, 1865, the journal tells of all the major events of his life in abundant detail: on the field of major battles, in the hospitals, and among Catholics and Protestants whom he encountered in local towns, on the trains, and in the course of his ministrations. Perhaps more significantly,it opens a window on the pastoral dimension of a chaplain's service in America's bloodiest war.
Published on: May 18, 2017A Chat with Auxiliary Bishop F. Richard Spencer
From jumping out of airplanes to witnessing a resurgence of Catholic faith in Europe, Auxiliary Bishop F. Richard Spencer shares his experiences as both a former U.S. Army Chaplain and the Episcopal Vicar of Europe and Asia. Bishop Spencer describes his sense of closeness to heaven while in midair free fall, his encounters with roadside bombs in Iraq, and contrary to reports of Europeans abandoning the Catholic faith in waves of secularism, his witness to a return to the church by many, particularly since the pontificate of Pope Francis. Bishop Spencer shares insights from a chapter he wrote for a new book called "Prayer in the Catholic Tradition" edited by Robert J. Wicks(Franciscan Media, 2016). The chapter, entitled "Military Postures in Prayer: Moments of Spiritual Intimacy," explores specific ways of praying in the context of Catholic Military Life.
Published on: May 5, 2017A chat with Archbishop Timothy Broglio
His Excellency, the Most Reverend Timothy P. Broglio, J.C.D., Archbishop for the Military Services, USA, chats about a wide range of issues confronting Catholics in the Military, including their freedom to exercise their faith, religious education, the priest shortage, and his reflections on nine (9) years at the helm of the only Catholic archdiocese responsible for the pastoral care of those who serve our nation in uniform, veterans in the nation's VA Medical Centers, and civilians serving the U.S. Government beyond U.S. borders.
Published on: April 18, 2017