Chaplains here to help manage stress, grow emotionally, spiritually

Published July 1, 2010
By Senior Airman Stephen Musal
460th Space Wing Public Affairs

BUCKLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- The Buckley Chapel staff are ready to lend an open ear and open mind to any troubles Airmen might have. While the chapel might be the first stop for some Airmen during stress, others might think the chapel is only for the religious.

Chaplain (Capt.) Randy Croft, a Protestant Chaplain with the Buckley Chapel, disagrees.

"One of the most common misconceptions some Airmen have is that chaplains are only here to take care of the religious. It's quite a common myth," Chaplain Croft said. "I remind Airmen sometimes that even though I may not be their pastor - they may have no faith at all - that I'm still committed to serving them as their chaplain. We strive to care and add value to everyone no matter what their worldview, belief, or rank.

"For example, in cases when chaplains don't perform certain religious requests due to our faith or denominational beliefs, we help provide the referrals and connections so Airmen can have their needs taken care of. Taking care of our fellow Airmen, helping them grow spiritually, in their personal and professional lives is really what we're all about, regardless of the Airmen's beliefs," Chaplain Croft said.

Indeed, the chaplain is one of the only military members who can offer confidentiality, and a chaplain's authority for confidentiality is absolute, according to the Uniform Code of Military Justice. That means, Chaplain Croft says, that you can tell them anything without fear of reprisal from anyone.

"As chaplains, we're not here to judge," he said. "It's our duty and our privilege to help anyone who comes to us for help to resolve their problems, move forward with their lives and grow as Airmen and as human beings."

Counseling sessions with chaplains can be scheduled by calling 720-847-GOD1, and can cover a wide variety of issues including relationship and family concerns, work issues, stress and anger management, suicidal thoughts, spiritual concerns and ethical issues. However, in an emergency, the on-call chaplain can be reached through the 460th Space Wing Command Post at any time.