MDNG Chaplains Adapt Religious Observance with COVID-19 Response Guidelines

By Sgt. James D. Nowell-Coleman, 29th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment 

ADELPHI, Md. (April 6, 2020) — As many in the country observe religious traditions this week, the Chaplain Corps is adjusting to the COVID-19 pandemic and the social distancing guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. U.S. Army Chaplain (Maj.) Wayne Stinchcomb, 58th Troop Command brigade chaplain, is holding services for Soldiers, in preparation for Easter Sunday. In what is typically a busy week, Chaplin’s are working even more due to the Maryland National Guard’s response to COVID-19. Chaplains are compelled to host more services to adhere to the social distancing policy and limitations of personnel in one location to ensure all service members who wish to partake can participate. Members who are taking part in communion received individually packaged communion wine and bread as an additional safety measure to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 

“Honestly, we are doing a lot more chaplain services weekly, helping build morale, checking in with soldiers, and covering down with units [without] chaplains,” said Stinchcomb. “But we are getting more connected with Soldiers because we have more time with Soldiers.”