Word in the aisles is that there’s a move of the Holy Spirit among young people across the nation. But how do you begin a new youth work? How do you expand your existing youth work exponentially? As part of my ministry in Church Without Walls, I now have pastoral, spiritual, and moral guidance responsibilities for 170 teenagers and 30 adult volunteers. This is because I said Yes to an invitation to be an Army Cadet Force (ACF) volunteer chaplain.
So, what does ACF chaplaincy look like?
At the time of writing, I’m about to attend the weeklong Annual Camp, during which cadets will enjoy navigation, sports, fieldcraft, target shooting, paintball, archery, and drill. Along with the other chaplain, I’ll provide field services, Sunday morning Communion, and space for cadets to discuss their concerns. I’ll also talk more casually with cadets and help those who are new to some tasks, like pitching a tent, cooking and hygiene in the field.
I visit cadet centres weekly, where I get to know the cadets and adult volunteers. I make presentations on the ACF Values and Standards, and I’m available to help with any pastoral issues that may arise.
At a recent Fieldcraft weekend away, I gave Bibles to 66 cadets and I presided over a field Communion service attended by 80 cadets and 10 adult volunteers; 32 teenagers and two adults shared in the bread and wine. Four teenagers and two adults approached me to talk about God, religion, and everyday life issues.
Along with the other adult volunteers, chaplains help young people to grow and mature, physically, emotionally, and spiritually, and all in a safe environment. About 30% of cadets go on to join the military, and former cadets are less likely to cross paths with the police, need social services, or draw on welfare benefits.
If you’re an ordained minister (in pastorate or retired), and you sense God calling you to a different kind of youth ministry, this office could be for you. You can invest as much or as little time as you have available. Why not contact me for more information? You can reach me on 07780 927743 or garysdm@hotmail.co.uk, and/or follow the Army Cadets chaplaincy link https://armycadets.com/parents-guardians/safeguarding-wellbeing/chaplaincy/
For other forms of army chaplaincy you might want to take a look at https://www.army.mod.uk/learn-and-explore/about-the-army/corps-regiments-and-units/royal-army-chaplains-department/
Revd Gary Serra di Migni
Chaplain, Devon Army Cadet Force/Minister, Church Without Walls Baptist Church