Broadening the role of religious support in the Army

Photo By Maj. Angel Tomko | The Marne Religious Leadership Development Course (MRLDC) brought 21 chaplains and religious affairs specialists from the 3rd Infantry Division to Washington, D.C., from Nov. 5-7, for an immersive training focused on building agile, adaptive religious support leaders. (Courtesy photo)  

FORT STEWART, GEORGIA, UNITED STATES

11.07.2024

Courtesy Story

3rd Infantry Division

WASHINGTON— The Marne Religious Leadership Development Course (MRLDC) brought 21 chaplains and religious affairs specialists from the 3rd Infantry Division to Washington, D.C., from Nov. 5-7, for an immersive training focused on building agile, adaptive religious support leaders. Designed to foster critical thinking, effective communication, and versatility in professional settings, the course challenged participants to engage deeply with the complexities our nation and Army face.

Throughout the course, participants visited significant sites, including the White House Military Office, the U.S. Capitol Building, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Arlington National Cemetery, the Museum of the U.S. Army, along with other historic landmarks across the city. These locations set the stage for high-level discussions with senior leaders, allowing participants to connect the Army’s mission and legacy with the present-day responsibilities of the Chaplain Corps.

“This training combined history, leadership insights, and professional growth in a powerful way,” said Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Dan Urquhart, Division Chaplain for the 3rd Infantry Division.

In addition to site visits, participants delivered presentations, including at Arlington National Cemetery, where they honored fallen 3rd Infantry Division soldiers from past conflicts, connecting their professional duties to the Army’s enduring legacy of service and sacrifice. These activities equipped participants with a broad understanding of the complex responsibilities they hold as Army leaders and chaplains.

A significant outcome of the MRLDC was to write an article for publication, inspired by a topic, reading, or discussion from the course. These articles are intended to strengthen the Army profession by sharing insights that reinforce core values and contribute to the broader military community.

“This was an incredible opportunity to develop a big-picture understanding of the issues facing the chaplain corps and has given me new perspectives to bring back to my unit,” said Chaplain (Capt.) Victoria Youell. “Writing an article for professional publication will allow us to share what we’ve learned and ensure the value of this training continues beyond the course.”

Chaplain (Maj.) Jason Andrews highlighted the lunch with the Chief of Chaplains and the Regimental Sergeant Major as the most impactful part of the course.

“The small group interactions during that lunch were invaluable,” Andrews said. “It gave us the chance to ask questions directly, gain insight into their vision for the Chaplain Corps, and hear their thoughts on the challenges we face. That personal connection and open dialogue made a real difference.”

As participants return to Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield, they bring with them not only personal growth but also the commitment to share their development with the wider Army community, contributing to an adaptive and professionally engaged force.

• Date Taken: 11.07.2024
• Date Posted: 11.18.2024 20:53
• Story ID: 485298
• Location: FORT STEWART, GEORGIA, US