Joining retreat participants were (front row L-R) Monsignor Peter O’Keefe, Archbishop Prowse and Br Ian Crib SJ
The retreats enhance the professional and personal development of chaplains by fostering a sense of belonging and solidarity among them. Chaplains also offer confidential advice, personal support, and ethical direction—all of which are critical in demanding military environments. Additionally, the retreats give chaplains a chance to reflect spiritually, form bonds with Christ and their co-chaplains.
Nearly twenty military chaplains from across Australia gathered at the Marist Hermitage in Mittagong for the annual Catholic Military Chaplains Retreat, focused on spiritual renewal and shared reflection. The retreat was led by Br Ian Cribb SJ.
“It’s so important to take this time away from the workspace,” said Chaplain. “It is a ministry, but it is also work — the way we engage with people. This retreat opportunity is essential.”
Chaplains of the Military Ordinariate serve members of all faiths, working collaboratively across denominations. “Our ministry is always at work, and the way we engage reflects both vocation and duty,” Chaplain said.
For Chaplain Camillus Nwahia, one of the chaplains at RAAF Base Wagga Wagga, the retreat was formative.
“We look after those in initial employment and skills training,” he said. “I found something special here — the silence, the closeness with God. Building friendship with Christ and those we work with helps us discover more of ourselves.”
Chaplain said the retreat offered rare peer support. “Sharing with others who understand the pressures of the role helps us reconnect with the spiritual foundations,” our chaplain said.
Chaplains provide ethical guidance, personal support and confidential counsel in high-pressure settings.
“We create a trusted space where service members can discuss personal, ethical or moral dilemmas,” Chaplain said.
As the chaplains returned to their bases, they highlighted the value of stepping back from daily duties to recharge and reconnect with their ministry.
Pope Francis appointed Archbishop Christopher Prowse Apostolic Administrator of the Military Ordinariate of Australia in May 2021, overseeing its pastoral care during a period of transition.
By Jeanine Doyle, Catholic Voice