Religious Support in the U.S. Military

Appeal to the Jewish Community,

It is at this time of year that Jews around the world observe the holidays and rejoice in our faith and heritage. It is no less important for any one Jew than the next, each reveling in the richness of our faith in common. However, there are those who by profession and location are often challenged in the facilitation of their observance, both during the holidays and throughout the year. I refer specifically to our military brethren who as a whole are the conduit by which our freedoms are secured and kept that way – for our benefit and for all fellow Americans. These heroes often receive support of all kinds when they are deployed and in the public light of the American populace. Whether in Iraq, Afghanistan or elsewhere, our Jewish Service Members have an adoring public who are quick to show their appreciation for the sacrifice that typifies the lives of these heroes. Furthermore, let us not overlook the service of the many military chaplains (Army, Navy and Air Force) who serve alongside these valiant troops, and work tirelessly to provide the denominational religious support they need and deserve. So whether you are a Soldier in Kuwait there was an Army Jewish Chaplain to blow the Shofar for you on Rosh Hashanah, or if you were in Iraq there was an Air Force Jewish Chaplain to lead Yom Kippur services and help with Sukkot holiday observance. Furthermore, these religious support efforts are further bolstered by a faithful network of Jewish Lay Leaders, who help fill the void when a Rabbi cannot be present. Either way, the job gets done, and Jewish ministry is rendered accordingly.

Nevertheless, it is when not deployed, that our military Service Members stationed at any one of the several dozen installations across the U.S. need additional support. Being that there are only a limited number of Jewish Chaplains, and a handful of Lay Leaders, there are always gaps in coverage at many of these posts and bases. It is therefore that I turn to the many Jewish communities, and particularly the Rabbis, located across this great country. I appeal to you to reach out to regional military installations in your area to offer your support and services. There are several wonderful examples of outside-led religious support being offered at various military locations for the benefit of our Jewish Service Members. However, the need is still great and the opportunity still beckons. The post or base Chaplain’s Office is the place to start, especially if you know that there is no Jewish Chaplain on assignment at that location. I invite you to reach out, make contact, offer the religious support needed and help enrich the lives and spiritual well-being of our America heroes.

A joyous holiday and new year to all.

Shmuel L. Felzenberg

Chaplain (Major) U.S. Army

Fort Leavenworth, KS