To walk with others in life’s journey, sharing the ups and downs, the hardships and privileges of uniformed people and Defence families is our call.
Word of encouragement from Paul the Apostle:
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.
Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, do not be conceited.
Do not repay anyone evil with evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone.
Romans 12: 15-17
How we support you
As uniformed members sharing many similar experiences in military service, our chaplains walk with you and offer support in times of anxiety, fear, stress or at a time when you are facing moral dilemmas, guilt, fatigue and aloneness. We seek to support you in your woundedness, injury and illness. We seek to bring consolation to the dying and those who mourn.
As unit chaplains and part of a multi-professional support team, we will strive to provide pastoral care through:
- Being available and a presence in the workplace;
- Being an integral part of unit life;
- Providing pastoral counselling;
- Assuring confidentiality in pastoral relationships unless obligation mandatory reporting is required;
- Referring to other support agencies as required and sought by you;
- Maintaining a network of faith-based and community networks;
- Advocating with command for the spiritual, psychological and practical wellbeing of members and families;
- Representing the welfare needs of individuals or groups to command;
- Offering prayer support;
- Providing opportunities for sacraments and worship.
This pastoral commitment is a corollary to our baptism, discipleship and integration of the Gospel into our lives which encompasses Christ’s pastoral mandate: What motivates us is Christ’s example of selflessness, compassion and care.
Ask to speak with a Catholic Chaplain through the Defence Switch: 1300 333 3623
“Come to me all you who labour and are heavy laden,
and I will give you rest.
Take My yoke upon you and learn from me,
for I am gentle and lowly in heart,
and you will find rest for your souls.
For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.”
Matthew 11:28
The Catholic Community
The Military Diocese encourages you to engage with your parish community, our chaplains, or a Catholic who has a good understanding of the faith, and who will provide pastoral support for any areas of concern.
Related topics
We are motivated to serve the Lord, our Nation and the Australian Defence Force
to the best of our ability through the services we provide.
Behind every ADF member there is an even stronger family who stands with them, supports them, and loves them with all their heart.
Our Diocese is spread out all of over the country
with Chapels located in each State, served by dedicated Chaplains.
Chaplains have long been a feature of the Australian military.