November 11, 2016

As you are reading this, over 200 Presbyterian teaching elders are scattered throughout our nation and the world in service to church and country.  These teaching elders serve in federal chaplaincy positions with the Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs or the Federal Bureau of Prisons.

Chaplain Brad Troxell, LTJG, CHC, USN

The Rev. Brad Troxell, Lieutenant (JG), Chaplain Corps, United States Navy, is a prime example – he is currently serving on the remote island of Diego Garcia (interesting place — google it!!). Brad has just begun his service as a chaplain but has already been sent to serve God in one of the military’s most remote locations.

Like Brad, our chaplains usually serve “below the radar” of our denomination. They work in out-of-the-way places  (usually not as exotic as Diego Garcia) and are often separated from their families while performing their ministries.

The Presbyterian Council for Chaplains and Military Personnel (PCCMP) is the endorsing agent for these teaching elders. The PCCMP, working in concert with presbyteries, is responsible for certifying to the federal government that any PC(USA) teaching elder who wishes to serve as a federal chaplain is physically and spiritually equipped to do so.

The PCCMP is also responsible for providing pastoral care and professional training for teaching elders like Brad. Isolated from the natural support that a presbytery offers, our chaplains need the support of those who have been where they are – serving as chaplains all over the world. The PCCMP provides support through visits, an annual training course, and regular contact.

The Rev. Dr. Larry Greenslit, director of the Presbyterian Council for Chaplains and Military Personnel

Today’s Focus:  Presbyterian Council for Chaplains & Military Personnel

Let us join in prayer for:

PC(USA) Staff

Ray Jones, PMA
Rick Jones, PMA

Let us pray

Gracious God, who rules over land, sea and air, watch over our chaplains and their families in these challenging days. Give them wisdom, courage and grace, and may your peace abide with them always. Amen.

Daily Lectionary

• Morning Psalms 130; 148
• First Reading Joel 2:28-3:8
• Second Reading James 1:16-27
• Gospel Reading Luke 16:1-9
• Evening Psalms 32; 139