Life as a military chaplain in Ukraine

A priest in Ukraine has given an account of his role in offering spiritual support to soldiers on the frontline of the present conflict.

Father Witalij Novak is currently a military chaplain serving with a brigade of around 3,000 men. He spoke to Catholic charity, Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), telling them that blessing those about to depart for battle is a moment of “great depth”, as all involved know the soldiers could also be forced to present their lives for his or her country.

“These moments are very essential to me. I would like to present them the most effective and supply them with security.

“But greater than my words, it’s the presence of God which I give to them,” he said. 

Father Novak added that in addition to offering blessings and the presence of God, he acts as a confidante to the troops and attempts to present them spiritual guidance to assist them act with conscience in wartime.

Archbishop Visvaldas Kulbokas, Apostolic Nuncio to Ukraine, echoed the importance of encouraging proper conduct amongst soldiers, as war can easily bring out the worst in people.

He told ACN, “There is a more humane way of coping with war … It could be very essential to transmit Christian values within the face of uncertainty and fear.”

Inevitably, chaplains like Father Novak are also called on to perform the Last Rites and to organise funerals. Providing counselling to those that have been injured or traumatised by the fighting can also be a key a part of their ministry.

This week it was announced by the Vatican that the Pope had opened the doors for a US military chaplain to develop into a canonised saint of the Roman Catholic Church. Father Emil Kapaun served in World War Two and died in a jail camp through the Korean War. He is one among plenty of people who find themselves now on the trail to sainthood.