Defence Force Chaplains retreat 2026

Finding time to pause, reflect and reconnect is important in any ministry, particularly one shaped by the demands and complexities of military life.

For Uniting Church Defence Force chaplains, the annual Faith Group Spiritual Conference  held at Holsworthy Barracks’ All Saints’ Chapel last week provided such an opportunity, bringing colleagues together for spiritual renewal, fellowship and reflection on their shared vocation.

The conference was facilitated by Rev Kaye Ronalds, who serves on the Religious Advisory Committee to the Services and was a former Army Reserve chaplain herself from 1992 to 2017.

The retreat’s theme, Finding Refuge and Strength in the Chaos of Life, provided a focus for five-day gathering, which began with an address by Uniting Church President Rev Charissa Suli.

Drawing on Psalm 46 and Philippians 3, Rev Suli reflected on where people place their trust when the things they depend upon become uncertain.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble,” she reminded the gathering.

Acknowledging the distinctive nature of Defence chaplaincy, Rev Suli recognised the importance of ministers and deacons being able to navigate the particular culture and structures of Defence while remaining grounded in their identity and calling as followers of Jesus Christ.

In Psalm 46, Rev Suli explored the tension between a world marked by conflict and instability and the enduring faithfulness of God. She noted that the psalm does not deny the reality of danger or promise protection from suffering. Rather, it invites people to place their confidence in God, even when circumstances are beyond their control.

For chaplains, this means recognising that pastoral ministry is not always about having answers or explanations, but about listening, offering prayer and remaining alongside people through difficult experiences.

Rev Suli also explored the challenging instruction to “Be still, and know that I am God”, pointing to the psalm’s vision of God bringing warfare to an end. She encouraged chaplains to hold questions of national security, authority, conscience and the pursuit of peace alongside their Christian commitment to love, justice, mercy and reconciliation.

In Philippians 3, Paul’s reflection on the surpassing value of knowing Christ offered a further reminder that Christian identity is not defined by professional achievements, positions or recognition, but by a relationship with Jesus.

On the second day, part-time Army chaplain Rabbanit Judith Levitan offered a presentation on Psalm 46 from the Jewish tradition, providing another perspective on the passage.

The following day, chaplains visited Wesley Mission in Sydney, where they met with CEO and Superintendent Rev Stu Cameron and Senior Pastor Rev Dr Rick Dacey. Both spoke about the gift of Sabbath and the importance of rest as a rhythm for Christian life and service.

While in the CBD, the group also participated in a Street Retreat, taking time to observe people and the rhythms of everyday life.

The retreat offered an important opportunity for personal and spiritual refreshment, as well as strengthening connections among Uniting Church ministers and deacons serving in Defence.

There are currently 29 Uniting Church chaplains serving in the Australian Defence Force, approximately half of whom are full-time.

Rev Ronalds is keen to connect with people who may be interested in exploring a vocation in Defence chaplaincy. Applicants need to be experienced and qualified in ministry, fit and healthy, and able to work in a demanding, professional, diverse and inclusive environment.

For further information, contact Rev Kaye Ronalds at kayeronalds@gmail.com.