Chaplain Interview
Titus Steven Keim
CHPL 500: Introduction to Chaplaincy Ministry
September 29, 2024
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Contents
Introduction..................................................................................................................................1
Entering the Chaplaincy..............................................................................................................1
Necessary Preparations........................................................................................................3
Ministry Opportunities................................................................................................................3
Strengths....................................................................................................................................... 4
Weaknesses................................................................................................................................... 5
Challenges, Threats, and Concerns............................................................................................ 6
Evangelical Chaplains......................................................................................................... 7
Ministry Effectiveness and Personal Life..................................................................................7
Lessons Learned, Growth, and Mentoring................................................................................9
Advice for Aspiring Chaplains............................................................................................9
Usefulness vs. Skepticism................................................................................................. 10
Conclusion...................................................................................................................................11
Bibliography............................................................................................................................... 12
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Introduction
This interview features Chaplain Josh Albrecht, who serves as the Maintenance Group
chaplain at Minot AFB. Conducted face to face on 17 September 2024 at 0900, the interview
delves into Chaplain Albrecht’s journey into military chaplaincy, his experiences, and the unique
challenges he faces in his role. With nearly nine years of service in the Air Force chaplaincy,
Chaplain Albrecht shares insight into his motivations for entering this discipline, his preparation
through academic and practical training (including Clinical Pastoral Education), and the distinct
opportunities available to him in the military context.
Throughout the interview, Chaplain Albrecht reflects on the strengths of being embedded
in the military environment, where he can forge meaningful connections with personnel and their
families. He also discusses the emotional toll of witnessing the struggles of those he serves, as
well as the importance of self-care and team processing. Additionally, Chaplain Albrecht
addresses the challenges evangelical chaplains face in navigating a pluralistic environment while
staying true to their faith. This candid conversation provides a deep understanding of the
complexities of chaplaincy within the Air Force, offering valuable perspectives on the personal,
spiritual, and professional growth that accompanies this calling. Chaplain Albrecht’s reflections
reveal the importance of balancing faith with pluralism and demonstrate the essential role
chaplains play in supporting the well-being of service members.
Entering the Chaplaincy
Chaplain Albrecht entered the military discipline with background in both Clinical
Pastoral Education and youth ministry, recognizing a distinct balance that chaplaincy brings to
ministry. He initially worked in hospitals during his CPE experience but also had substantial
involvement in church and youth ministries. Chaplain Albrecht noted that he “really liked Air
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Force chaplaincy,”1 highlighting a preference for the military chaplaincy environment due to its
structure and unique blend of responsibilities. He appreciated how chaplaincy allowed him to
balance various facets of ministry.
In particular, he acknowledged that “there is a balance to the ministry in military
chaplaincy,”2 suggesting that the discipline integrates many elements from other ministry
experiences. This discipline combines practical, immediate care (as seen in hospital CPE work)
with more structured, long-term spiritual development often encountered in church or youth
ministry roles. Ultimately, Chaplain Albrecht seems to have been drawn to this discipline
because of its holistic nature – providing opportunities to serve in a variety of contexts while
maintaining meaningful connections with people during critical moments in their lives.
Chaplain Albrecht began his journey in chaplaincy in 2015, accumulating nine years of
experience at the time of this interview. This duration reflects how committed he is to his calling
and suggests a wealth of experiences gained throughout nearly a decade of service. By
embedding himself in the military chaplaincy, Chaplain Albrecht has had ample time to cultivate
relationships and refine his ministry approach. The length of service also implies a deepening of
his practical and spiritual insights, further reinforcing the notion that chaplaincy has become an
integral part of his vocational identity. Over the course of these nine years, chaplain Albrecht
would have numerous opportunities to navigate the unique challenges and rewards that come
with serving military personnel and their families. This extended timeframe indicates both
personal growth and increasing responsibility within his role.
1 In the interview with me on 17 September 2024, Chaplain Albrecht stated that he “really liked Air Force
chaplaincy.”
2 In the interview with me on 17 September 2024, Chaplain Albrecht stated that “there is a balance to the ministry in
military chaplaincy.”
3
Necessary Preparations
Chaplain Albrecht’s preparation for this ministry was rooted in both academic and
practical training, which he highlights as being pivotal to his qualifications. After receiving a
Master of Divinity (MDiv) degree, he completed CPE, which he described as “the best
qualification.”3 This practical training was seen as essential because it allowed Chaplain Albrecht
to engage in real-life ministry situations and apply the theological knowledge gained through the
MDiv program. He emphasized that the CPE provided “practical application of MDiv
knowledge,” bridging the gap between academic study and real-world ministry. The hands-on
challenges presented by CPE, especially in hospital settings, exposed him to critical pastoral
issues such as dealing with illness, death, and grief, which are prominent in chaplaincy work.
This experience not only deepened his theological understanding but also strengthened
his ability to process belief systems and handle difficult emotional and spiritual situations.
Furthermore, CPE helped Chaplain Albrecht develop “an understanding of [his] role within the
context of military chaplaincy.”4 This training provided a foundation for dealing with specific
needs individuals he would serve in the future, allowing him to see the broader challenges faced
by military personnel and their families.
Ministry Opportunities
In this chaplaincy discipline, Chaplain Albrecht outlined a diverse range of ministry
opportunities. He noted the ability to perform key life events like marriages and funerals
(“marrying and burring”), underscoring the chaplain’s role in pivotal personal moments. These
events allow the chaplain to provide both pastoral care and spiritual guidance in times of joy and
3 In the interview with me on 17 September 2024, Chaplain Albrecht stated that CPE was “the best qualification”
and that it was a “practical application of MDiv knowledge.”
4 He stated that CPE provided “an understanding of [his] role within the context of military chaplaincy.”
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grief. Additionally, Chaplain Albrecht spoke about “networking with other faith traditions,”5
which indicates his role in fostering religious diversity and inclusion with his ministry setting.
This opportunity suggests that chaplains are involved in multi-faith dialogues, which are
essential in military contexts where service members come from various religious backgrounds.
Chaplain Albrecht is also involved in religious accommodation, ensuring that the diverse faith
needs of his personnel are met, “whether that be for worship, religious holidays, or spiritual
practices.”6
His role also involves counseling and crisis intervention, further emphasizing the
multifaceted nature of his duties. Counseling allows him to “walk alongside personnel in their
emotional and spiritual struggles,”7 while crisis intervention highlights his availability during
emergencies or traumatic events. Chaplain Albrecht also mentioned being a resource for spiritual
growth and mentoring, providing ongoing support for those seeking to deepen their faith. Finally,
he is responsive to unplanned ministry opportunities, a reflection of the unpredictability in
military life, where needs can arise suddenly, and chaplains must be flexible and adaptable to
offer support whenever necessary.
Strengths
One of the key strengths Chaplain Albrecht identified is the embedded nature of military
chaplaincy, which “affords connection with personnel in a way that other ministry roles may
not.”8 Being embedded allows the chaplain to be a constant, accessible presence for those he
serves, which fosters a sense of trust and relational depth. This availability, as Chaplain Albrecht
5 In the interview with me on 17 September, Chaplain Albrecht mentioned the aspect of “networking with other faith
traditions.”
6 When speaking of religious accommodation, he said that needs are met, “whether that be for worship, religious
holidays, or spiritual practices.”
7 He also mentioned that counseling allows him to “walk alongside personnel in their emotional and spiritual
struggles.”
8 He stated that military chaplaincy “affords connection with personnel in a way that other ministry roles may not.”
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noted, means he can be immediately available to respond to crises, provide guidance, or simply
offer a listening ear when needed. He also highlighted the strength of being very connected with
people, suggesting that the chaplaincy offers the opportunity to build strong, meaningful
relationships over time. This connection is more that just pastoral oversight; it’s about “forging
deep personal bonds”9 with individuals and their families, which Chaplain Albrecht finds
particularly rewarding. Understanding the family dynamics of the personnel he serves is another
critical aspect of his ministry. This insight allows him to offer more tailored support to both the
service members and their loved ones.
Additionally, because of this proximity and continual engagement, Chaplain Albrecht
perceives his ministry as more impactful than some other forms of ministry that may not have the
same level of day-to-day interaction with those he serves. The immediacy and intimacy provide a
level of care that is both personal and effective, which Chaplain Albrecht sees as a distinct
advantage in this particular discipline.
Weaknesses
While the chaplaincy’s embedded nature is a strength, it also presents certain limitations.
Chaplain Albrecht expressed a “desire to do more,”10 acknowledging that despite his efforts, the
scope of his work is sometimes constrained by demands of the military environment. The
chaplaincy’s structure can impose limits on how much time can be spent with individuals or how
deeply they can engage with certain issues, which can leave the chaplain feeling like there’s
more he could be doing.
9 In the interview on 17 September, regarding strengths of his discipline, he was encouraged by “forging deep
personal bonds.”
10 He mentioned the weakness of feeling the “the desire to do more.”
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Another weakness mentioned is that his close connection to the people he serves can
make it more difficult to witness their struggles. Chaplain Albrecht noted that connection hurts
more to see the struggle, indicating the emotional toll that comes with being so deeply involved
in the lives of others, especially during times of hardship. This deep involvement, while
rewarding, requires the chaplain to engage in significant personal processing of these
experiences to avoid burnout or emotional exhaustion. The limitations of the role, combined with
the emotional weight of the work, present ongoing challenges for the chaplain, who must find
ways to manage these aspects while maintaining his effectiveness in ministry.
Challenges, Threats, and Concerns
One of Chaplain Albrecht’s greatest challenges is being able to say ‘no,’ especially when
saying yes could lead to overextending himself. In the chaplaincy, there are often countless
demands on time and energy, and learning to set boundaries is essential. He admitted that it can
be difficult to refuse requests for help, even when it might be a good idea to do so for the sake of
self-care. Another significant challenge is processing the secondary effects of traumas and
struggles he witnesses in the lives of those he serves. This secondary trauma “can have a
negative impact on ministry if not properly addressed,”11 as it can drain the chaplain emotionally
and spiritually.
The chaplain must learn how to cope with these experiences without allowing them to
detract from his ability to minister effectively. Additionally, Chaplain Albrecht mentioned self-
care as a key challenge, particularly in “being okay with asking for help when needed.”12 In a role
where he is constantly giving, it can be difficult to acknowledge his own need for rest,
11 Regarding secondary trauma, Chaplain Albrecht stated it “can have a negative impact on ministry if not properly
addressed.”
12 He also stated that it was necessary “being okay with asking for help when needed.”
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rejuvenation, or support. Ensuring that he maintains his own well-being is crucial not just for his
personal health, but also for the sustainability of his ministry.
Evangelical Chaplains
Chaplain Albrecht is particularly concerned with maintaining the integrity of his faith
while navigating a pluralistic environment. One of the central challenges is balancing his belief
in missions to bring others to Christ with the reality that in military chaplaincy, he is often
ministering to individuals from diverse religious backgrounds. He emphasized the importance of
never compromising his faith, even when there may be pressure to conform to the needs of a
pluralistic environment. There is also the challenge of knowing when and how to share personal
faith. Chaplain Albrecht was advised that it is “not always important to share everything,”
recognizing that there are moments when discretion is required in evangelizing or sharing the full
extent of his beliefs. This does not mean abandoning the mission but being wise in how he
approaches sensitive topics in a pluralistic context.
Ministry Effectiveness and Personal Life
Chaplain Albrecht’s perception of effectiveness is largely influenced by the expectations
and intent of the Commander (CC) he works for. He remarked that he “must determine his
effectiveness based on how well he aligns with the mission and goals set forth by his
commanding officers.”13 In this sense, effectiveness is not measured solely by personal
satisfaction or spiritual impact but also by how well his work supports the larger objectives of the
military unit. Chaplain Albrecht noted that “aligning with CC expectations and intent is crucial
for determining success.”14 This suggests that chaplaincy effectiveness is evaluated in terms of
13 Regarding ministry effectiveness, Chaplain Albrecht remarked that he “must determine his effectiveness based on
how well he aligns with the mission and goals set forth by his commanding officers.”
14 He also noted that “aligning with CC expectations and intent is crucial for determining success.”
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how well chaplains contribute to the overall mission of the unit, which can sometimes mean
putting aside personal ministry goals in favor of broader institutional priorities.
Furthermore, Chaplain Albrecht recognizes that success is determined by authority,
meaning that his effectiveness is judged based on the feedback and evaluations of his superiors.
Helping the command structure be successful is a key metric for his own success. In essence,
Chaplain Albrecht’s role is to serve the military community in such a way that his contributions
align with and enhance the unit’s overall goals, thereby making his ministry efforts effective.
When asked about the impact on personal life, Chaplain Albrecht compared his role to
being in a mission field, emphasizing the significant personal and family sacrifices that come
with the position. He described the impact on his family as “significant,” indicating that the
demands of the chaplaincy often spill over into his home life. Chaplain Albrecht referred to it as
“a family ministry,”15 suggesting that his wife and children are indirectly, and sometimes
directly, involved in the ministry by virtue of his responsibilities and schedule. He also
highlighted the need for prayer support, not only for his own spiritual strength, but also for the
well-being of his family. Balancing ministry duties with family responsibilities has proven
difficult, as Chaplain Albrecht noted that homelife becomes out-of-balance due to the time and
energy required by the chaplaincy. This imbalance can be particularly challenging for chaplains
who, like their service members, experience long hours, frequent relocations, and emotional
tolls.
Lessons Learned, Growth, and Mentoring
One of the most surprising lessons Chaplain Albrecht learned involves the power of
reflection and the importance of processing difficult experiences. He referred to a hospice
15 He further acknowledged his discipline as “a family ministry.”
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example, where an unexpected outcome during a traumatic hospice incident provided insight into
the significance of being present in moments of profound loss and grief. This experience taught
him that sometimes the most impactful ministry happens in the quiet moments of presence rather
than through words or actions. Another surprising lesson was learning the importance of “team
processing events.”16 Chaplain Albrecht found that debriefing with the team after emotionally
challenging events was extremely needful. This kind of processing helps chaplains avoid
becoming overwhelmed by the cumulative stress and trauma that can build up over time. He
expressed the need to create that space for that reflection regularly, ensuring that he and his
fellow chaplains are taking care of their own emotional and spiritual well-being. This experience
underscores the necessity of self-awareness and communal support in chaplaincy work. It has
become clear to Chaplain Albrecht that while he is often focused on ministering to others, it’s
equally important to take the time to reflect and heal himself, with the help of his peers and team
members.
Advice for Aspiring Chaplains
The first piece of advice that Chaplain Albrecht offered for someone called to chaplaincy
is to complete CPE. He views this practical training as essential for anyone entering chaplaincy,
as it provides critical experience in dealing with the complexities of pastoral care. The hands-on
nature of CPE equips future chaplains with the skills they need to handle difficult situations and
effectively minister to people in crisis. He also advised to “solidify one’s personal belief
system”17 before entering chaplaincy. Being secure in one’s foundational doctrines is important
because chaplains need to be able to stand firm in their beliefs while also serving in
environments where faith may be challenged or where they may be ministering to people of
16 Chaplain Albrecht emphasized the importance of “team processing events.”
17 For those seeking to enter the chaplaincy, he advised to “solidify one’s personal belief system.”
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different beliefs. However, Chaplain Albrecht encouraged leaving room for growth and
development, indicating that there is always space to learn and deepen one’s faith.
Understanding strengths and weaknesses is also crucial, as he urged future chaplains to
be self-aware. “They should know where the excel and where they need support.”18 Lastly,
Chaplain Albrecht emphasized the importance of being willing to work with a team. Chaplaincy
often involves collaboration, whether with other chaplains, military personnel, or other
professionals, so being a team player is a necessary trait for success.
Usefulness vs. Skepticism
When asked how he would answer someone skeptical of chaplaincy, Chaplain Albrecht
said he would emphasize that the anti-God environment needs chaplains. In many sectors,
including the military, chaplains are often the only spiritual presence in an increasingly secular
or pluralistic environment. They provide critical support to individuals who may not have access
to religious resources otherwise. Chaplains are uniquely positioned to minister in pluralism,
offering care that transcends religious boundaries while staying true to their own faith traditions.
Chaplain Albrecht also highlighted the ability of chaplains to demonstrate true, meaningful care
and love in everyday life. This practical demonstration of faith through acts of service and
compassion helps to show the value of chaplaincy beyond traditional religious settings. In an
environment that may be resistant to overt religious expressions, chaplains model Christ’s love
through their actions and presence.
Lastly, Chaplain Albrecht underscored the role of chaplains in “protecting the right to
constitutional freedom of religion.”19 Chaplains stand as advocates for religious liberty, ensuring
18 He also advised that “they should know where they excel and where they need support.”
19 Regarding the usefulness of chaplains, Chaplain Albrecht underscored the role of chaplains in “protecting the right
to constitutional freedom of religion.”
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that service members have the ability to practice their faith, regardless of what that faith may be.
They act as guardians of this fundamental right, which adds a significant level of importance to
their role in a secular or government-run environment. This protection of religious freedom is a
key reason why chaplaincy remains not only useful but essential in diverse institutional contexts.
Conclusion
The interview with Chaplain Josh Albrecht highlights the essential role of a military
chaplain. Chaplain Albrecht shared how his journey from traditional ministry to the Air Force
chaplaincy has allowed him to balance accessibility with responding to the spiritual and
emotional needs of personnel. His preparations, including CPE, was pivotal in equipping him to
handle the unique challenges of military chaplaincy. Chaplain Albrecht also touched on the
personal toll of the role, particularly the need for self-care and managing secondary trauma,
while emphasizing how these experiences have deepened his spiritual growth. Balancing
pluralism with his evangelical faith is a constant challenge, but one that his navigates with
integrity. Overall, this interview provides insight into the compassionate and critical work of
military chaplains like Chaplain Albrecht perform, offering spiritual support and guidance during
both ordinary and extraordinary moments in service members’ lives.
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Bibliography
Albrecht, Josh, Ch. Capt, USAF. Interview conducted on 17 September. Minot Air Force Base,
2024.
