The unexpected crisis at Fort Hood on April 2 sent shock waves across the Nation as people responded in disbelief with, “Not again!” As most Americans were trying to learn the details of what was happening, Fort Hood Chaplains were already responding with pastoral care within minutes after the shooting.
By Dr. Richard Pace
Two Church of God Army Chaplains were among the many that provided pastoral care to those involved and affected by the incident. Chaplain (Captain) Jason West was in the building adjacent to where the initial shots were fired. He and those in his building heard the shots and moved away from their windows. When the firing subsided, Chaplain West and his commander went to the scene and began caring for those affected. Chaplain (Captain) David Redden reported to the Chaplain Emergency Operations Center within minutes after the shooting to go with the notification teams to minister to the families of the victims who resided in the area. Both of these Chaplains provided outstanding care in the immediate aftermath of the incident and continue to provide ongoing ministry to those affected.
Chaplains West and Redden were only two of the dozens of Fort Hood Chaplains that were dispatched by the Garrison Chaplain to minister to the victims’ families, the wounded taken to the medical facilities, the witnesses gathered at a nearby gym, the Soldiers of the affected units, and the many concerned family members from around the country who called Fort Hood. A crisis of this nature emphasizes the value and importance of why institutions like the U.S. Army have chaplains among their ranks.
Chaplains, whether serving as paid staff members or as volunteers, ministering from the inside of an institution are able to provide pastoral care to those whom most local pastors do not even have access. Effective pastoral care within an institution always begins long before a crisis occurs by establishing relationships and rehearsing contingency plans.
The Church of God is proud of and grateful for the men and women of God who minister in a wide variety of institutions and organizations as Church of God Chaplains. On a daily basis, our Chaplains minister to the spiritual needs of those under their pastoral care. When a crisis occurs, you are the first on the scene with a message of hope and compassion. Thank you all for the outstanding work you do in the name of our Lord.
Richard L. Pace, D.Min., is endorser and coordinator of Vocational Chaplaincy Ministries