Chaplain Returns to Iraq for a Second 15 Month Assignment
Church of God Chaplain Jeff Bartels has just returned to Iraq for a second time. Other soldiers that are with him are in Iraq for a third or even fourth time. This commitment to America and the freedoms it represent are difficult and takes a toll on the troops and families alike. Yet, chaplains like Jeff Bartels never question their calling to minister to the troops and the price that they must pay every day that they are deployed. The following story is in Chaplain Bartels own words as he describes for us what it is like to return to ministry in Iraq.
“It may seem odd to some, but just as I did in my last deployment I anoint those who are going into harm’s way by simply drawing a small cross upon the vessel that is carrying them, in this case an aircraft. In my first tour it was up-armored HUMVEEs and tanks, that I prayed over. So, in this case I simply pay a visit to the flight line when I know crews are leaving to go north. I first meet with them and listen to the pre-flight brief. Once it’s completed I speak to the pilots and crews about the power of prayer, read Psalm 91, and then spend some time in prayer with them. Regardless if it’s a first deployment or a fourth, prayer is a necessary ingredient.
After the prayer, I tell everyone that they will see me and my assistant walking the line (aircraft positioned along the flight line), praying over each “bird,” and anointing them with oil. I also tell them that I am not praying for mechanics or speed or great weather, I am praying that God will protect their journey and guide them safely to their next destination. As they depart the brief, I’m given hand shakes and ‘Thank You’s,’ as I make my way to the line. As a Pentecostal I believe in being covered. Many songs we sing are about being washed in the blood or covered by the blood, and many times our prayer services are about anointing people to do great things, be kept from harm, or recover from illness. Here I see it as an opportunity to pray for our freedom fighters and let them know that their chaplain cared enough to brave the 120 degree flight line to pray that they would be kept safe. That little act of compassion has sparked a multitude of conversations among my soldiers. My Battalion Commander told me; “Chaplain, you need to pour oil all over an aircraft that wasn’t working!” I told him; “As always, I pray for the crews, not the equipment or mechanics.” Another soldier said; “Chaplain, something about that oil, you can still see it even with all the dust!” I agreed with him and elaborated a little, yet thought that’s another sermon.
Regardless of the place or the time I find prayer is the right call. Whether it’s saying a blessing over aircrews or asking God to comfort those families while their loved ones are away, prayer works! We have 15 months to go on this one and prayer is a necessity for all of us. So, I ask that you keep the men and women making such great sacrifices close to your heart. We need your support, your prayer, and some day soon will we return home and give praise unto God for what He has done in our lives through this journey. Jeff is a graduate of Lee University and the Church of God School of Theological Seminary. He, his wife Teresa and their new born daughter, Maygan, reside at Fort Riley, Kansas.
To learn more about the Church of God Chaplains Commission Chaplaincy programs, visit the Chaplains Chaplains Commission website at: www.cogchaplains.com .
