The LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces supports almost 200 chaplains, who represent the church on active duty, the reserves, the National Guard, and Civil Air Patrol. Chaplains meet the needs of military personnel and their families.
The LCMS cares deeply for those who currently serve, for those who have donned the cloth of our nation in uniform, and for those who served our nation and live in our communities.
Our pastors of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod serve honorably and with distinction as military chaplains. From the Civil War through both World Wars, Korea, Vietnam, and current areas of conflict, our chaplains bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to those protecting our great nation.
Some chaplains serve on forward bases in harm’s way, others onboard ships maintaining vigilant watch over the seven seas, and others walk the flight line on isolated Air Bases engaging Airmen on faith and family as they load fighter aircraft for combat operations. These “pastors in uniform” provide Word and Sacrament ministry while enduring hardship, constant peril and danger.
The LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces assists and trains congregations through project Operation Barnabas. The goal is to equip and encourage local LCMS members in compassionate care and witness by training outreach to all military connected people (active, reserve, retired, veterans and their loved ones).
Our LCMS Barnabas congregations and chapters reach out to these families through witness and mercy at the local level, whether it is the families of loved ones deployed or assisting those who have served to reintegrate back home with their family, their church and their community.
You can learn more about LCMS to the Armed Forces on the LCMS Website or read So Help Me God, the Newsletter from the LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces.