The moral injury of war was merely a slice of the ravages of sin and death borne by those I met and served. Chaplains enjoy absolute confidentiality with service members – nothing can be reported. Consequently, the chaplain’s office is a confessional for everything these sailors are unable to say to anyone else. Were they victims – or perpetrators – of sexual assault, harassment, or hazing? Did they enlist to escape a broken home, a criminal past, or homelessness? Did they attempt suicide last night or lie during their disciplinary proceedings? Tell the chaplain. Because the chaplain will listen and care for you. The chaplain cannot hurt you; he can only try to help. The chaplain’s office is the one place where you let your guard down and express your fears, doubts, guilt, anger, or hopelessness.

The chaplain is a gardener in a warzone.