2022 LCMS Youth Gathering Sessions. How to Survive and Thrive as a Lutheran Christian in the Military!

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Are you nervous about joining the military? Are you worried about a friend or relative who is joining or already in the military? Are you not sure what to expect? Will you be able to practice your faith? These are all questions our Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Airmen and Guardians ask as they begin their training (either in “boot camp” or Officer Candidate School or even the Academies). In this session we will discuss all the challenges and opportunities to not only survive Military training as a Christian, but also how to thrive in this challenging and exciting environment. We will look at some of the challenges that will be encountered by all who selflessly serve in the Military, but also provide mentoring and information to excel in the Military without having to compromise your faith or conscience. We will also look at case studies of how individuals overcame obstacles and joyfully serve our Nation in the Armed Forces. Maybe you have a relative who is in the military and you want to understand more about the culture and challenges they face physically and spiritually. We will provide resources and information to ensure Spiritual Fitness for you and/or your loved ones in the Military. We will give take a look at the armor which God has given you to not only survive, but to thrive as a Christian who selflessly volunteered to serve our nation. This session is for all military connected persons. You will find it valuable even if you are not a member of the military, but if you someone who is. Come and join Chaplain Muehler on this adventure.

Bio: Chaplain Craig Muehler, a retired U.S. Navy captain, serves as the director of the LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces. He began serving in that position in August 2014 after retiring as deputy chaplain of the U.S. Marine Corps, where he served from 2011-14. As director of LCMS Ministry to the Armed Forces, he is the chief liaison to the more than 160 LCMS chaplains serving in all branches of the military active and reserve, and the Civil Air Patrol. His responsibilities include recruitment of chaplain candidates, endorsement for military duty, denominational training and education for ministry within the armed forces, maintaining updated records on all pastoral acts performed by Lutheran chaplains, and ministry support for the families of LCMS chaplains within the military, active and reserve, and the community in which they live. Muehler and his wife, Kristen, have four children; Seth, Jesse, Faith and Hope.