This article explores fundamental questions regarding the future of military chaplain cy and whether this categorical pastoral care remains relevant in the modern era. It reflects on the significance of specific chaplaincy activities and presents the perspec tives of chaplains themselves on what they consider to be the essence of their mission in the coming years.
The findings indicate that churches not only anticipate but actively support the con tinued presence of chaplaincy within the armed forces. The chaplains themselves view their service—the traditions of which date back to the earliest history of our nations— as indispensable. Although the service was re-established differently in each coun try—“bottom-up” in the Czech Republic due to the army’s own initiative, and “top down” in Slovakia via international treaties—it is now firmly rooted in both.
However, the exact future form of this ministry remains uncertain. Churches face inter nal challenges that must be addressed to ensure the military chaplaincy does not serve as a repository for redundant personnel or those seeking a well-paid career. Drawing on a survey conducted among fellow chaplains, the author identifies specific areas that the spiritual services of the Army of the Czech Republic and the Armed Forces of the Slovak Republic should reflect upon and develop. This article builds on a study pub lished in this journal in 2024, which provided an overview of the duties and tasks per formed by military chaplains.
Keywords: military chaplain, categorical pastoral care, spiritual ministry, survey, prayer, Christian service, relationships, spiritual needs, 21st century