The Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church to expand training for future military chaplains in seminaries
In its message to military chaplains, “I have chosen you…,” the Synod of Bishops of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church calls on priests to carefully discern their vocation to chaplaincy and emphasizes the need to strengthen the formation of seminarians for possible service as military chaplains.
Rectors of UGCC seminaries at the celebration of the 240th anniversary of the Lviv Theological Seminary, Lviv, December 2, 2023
In the Letter to Military Chaplains signed by the Head of the Church on June 4, the bishops of the UGCC outlined specific steps for the development of the institution of military chaplaincy.
“We consider it appropriate to prepare a separate course for seminarians that would address ethical, moral, spiritual, and pastoral issues related to war and the healing of wounds inflicted by it,” the document reads.
The Synod emphasized the importance of properly discerning vocations to chaplaincy: “Special attention should be given to seminary formation to ensure that all seminarians have both the freedom to discern their vocation in depth and access to the necessary information.”
The Department of Military Chaplaincy of the Patriarchal Curia has been entrusted with developing a plan for the effective recruitment of clergy to discern vocations to serve in the pastoral care of military personnel.
The bishops also pointed out the need to develop ecclesial structures to support chaplains. “Support for your pastoral capabilities, ongoing formation, regular retreats and times of spiritual renewal, and opportunities for sharing experiences must become integral components,” the message states.
The bishops emphasized that every vocation is a gift from God to the Church and should therefore be treated with due attention and respect.
The UGCC Department for Information
