An insight into the work of the former chaplain with the British Army in Northern Ireland and Iraq.
On the 25 May 2011 you shall be giving a talk at the Drwm. Tell us a little bit about your presentation.
I shall be talking about how the church and faith intertwine in the military world. These establishments are very similar as both emphasise on tradition, history, discipline, faithfulness etc. The philosophy of the army is based on strong morality – something that many people would think of as old-fashioned.
How does parish life compare to life in the army?
It is very different. As a parish priest I have noticed that people have their expectancy of what a priest should do – and the way he must act. It is not like this in the army (where people do not apologize to the priest for swearing). I liked the freedom which I had in the army, to live in a normal house like everyone else, to work normal office hours, and to pertain a relationship with young people and people outside the church. I also enjoyed moving from one location to another – two years was the longest posting for a chaplain.
Was your faith ever shaken due to difficult circumstances in the army?
To be honest, no. You see goodness even in a faithless soldier.
Are you a fan of Web 2.0 Technology – Facebook, Twitter, Blogs etc?
Do you use them as part of your work on a daily basis?
I use Facebook on a daily basis to connect with family and friends. I host a page for the parish on Facebook and upload photos, events and information about services etc. Most of the work between the parish and me or between the diocese and me happens online.
I am also a local Dean – and doing this job successfully would be impossible without the Internet. This is how most couples contact me to arrange their weddings.
I only use Twitter for a few subtle comments.
‘Yr Efengyl mewn Khaki’
25 May at 1.15 p.m.
The Rev. Aled Huw Thomas
An insight into the work of the former chaplain with the British Army in Northern Ireland and Iraq
Free admission by ticket