More than a 'Visible reminder of the Holy'

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Heather Stanton
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  The U.S. Air Force Chaplain Corps sees itself as a "Visible reminder of the Holy." 

However, the chaplains and Airmen working at the 4th Fighter Wing Chapel provide a physical presence around the base that does not always equate to the religious programming often assumed. 

The chaplains provide more than a weekly sermon and prayer at base events. They are frequently visiting work centers around the base to raise morale and let Airmen know they are there when in need, even if it's not in a spiritual capacity. 

"Our number one priority is being visible and available," said Chaplain (Maj.) William O'Sullivan. "We do this in various ways that don't look spiritual or religious in nature." 

Living that out involves providing assistance to Airmen, such as taking care of their family while they are deployed. 

"We help spouses mow lawns and take care of regular household chores while their Airman is deployed," Chaplain O'Sullivan said. More than 600 families have taken advantage of the assistance provided by the chapel. 

Another project the chapel has taken on, adding to their base visibility, is random acts of chapel kindness, better known around the wing as RACK attacks. 

"We do RACK attacks to help build morale, and attempt to build relationships with our Airmen," said Chaplain (Capt.) Randall Jameson. "The RACK attack goes out to a variety of different agencies such as the maintenance group and brings them snowcones or popsicles." 

The chapel also hosts activities such as marriage enrichment retreats and seminars that give practical advice on improving marriages and overcoming conflicts. 

"The approach is a practical application from a spiritual foundation or truth," said Chaplain O'Sullivan. "It's an approach that ultimately makes a difference in people's lives." 

Counseling is yet another service the chapel provides to all Airmen and families, whether it be spiritual in nature or practical insight into life challenges. 

"People who don't feel threatened (about being pushed into religion) readily discuss problems," Chaplain O'Sullivan explained. "Airmen are not going to get a sermon or be compelled to show up to the chapel on Sunday. We want to help people accept issues and overcome destructive habits and behavioral problems." 

Chaplains are some of the few people with "privileged communication," which is an individual's right that anything said within a counseling environment be kept in absolute confidentiality. The only other place where there is such confidentiality is with the Area Defense Counsel. Written consent must be given by the individual in order for any information to be divulged. 

For more information about the chapel's activities and services, contact your squadron chaplain or the chapel at 722-0315.