2d TSB UMT Spiritual Fitness events build camaraderie, resilience

Photo By Candy C Knight | WORMS, Germany -- Fourteen members from the 2d Theater Signal Brigade participated in the Unit Ministry Team's Spiritual Fitness event to Worms, Germany November 4, 2022. The event’s theme was ‘Remembering the Reformation,’ and centered on highlighting locations and aspects about a significant and historic religious event. Spiritual Fitness events are designed to invite attendees to take part in a culturally significant event from history that addresses the cultural impact of religion, spirituality, morality, and ethics. (Courtesy photo)  

WORMS, GERMANY

11.10.2022

Story by Candy C Knight 

2d Theater Signal Brigade

WORMS, Germany — Fourteen members from the 2d Theater Signal Brigade participated in the Unit Ministry Team's Spiritual Fitness event to Worms, Germany November 4, 2022.

Spiritual Fitness events are designed to invite attendees to take part in a culturally significant event from history that addresses the cultural impact of religion, spirituality, morality, and ethics.

The event’s theme was ‘Remembering the Reformation,’ and centered on highlighting locations and aspects about a significant and historic religious event.

“Spiritual Fitness events are opportunities designed to invite attendees to broaden their understanding of religion and spirituality and its impact on faith, politics, and world events,” said Chaplain (Maj.) Neil D. Huenefeld, 2d TSB chaplain. “The Reformation is a significant event in church history because it marks the beginning when Christianity separated between Catholic and Protestant and as a result, revitalized faith, religion, and theology in both churches.”

During the event, participants took a walking tour through Worms, visiting key sites where Martin Luther took his stand in the face of imperial and papal pressure, which resulted in the Protestant Reformation movement that eventually swept across Europe.

For members like Pfc. David Chaput, the event provided a break from the normal work day routine, and an opportunity to visit more of Germany.

“My favorite part was the ‘Walking Through History’ part of the event,” Chaput said. “I learned a lot, and I see modern day people who resemble Martin Luther.”

Chaput stated he will attend future events because they provide him with opportunities to bond with his fellow servicemembers and meet new members of 2d TSB.

“These events also help me remember that military service can be tough at times, but when I have opportunities to visit new places and meet new people, it reminds me that life isn’t so bad,” he said.

Part of the Unit Ministry Team’s mission is to perform and provide for the free exercise of religion for all DoD Service Members, Department of Army Civilians, and their Families. Huenefeld stated Spiritual Fitness events are just one way the team accomplishes its mission.

Spiritual Fitness events locations are selected based on religious importance, moral/ethical significance, and ease of travel and logistics, according to Huenefeld.

“There are so many opportunities in Europe to visit beautiful cathedrals, take a nature walk or pilgrimage, and be inspired by the many men and women of faith,” he added.

The next 2d TSB Spiritual Fitness event will explore the Cologne Cathedral and Christmas Markets.

“Spiritual Fitness events aim to build morale and reduce stress on the force,” Huenefeld said. “It does this by providing an offsite spiritually focused event allowing members to learn more about a historic faith tradition that shaped the world and to consider their own role in shaping history.”


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• Date Taken: 11.10.2022
• Date Posted: 11.10.2022 04:00
• Story ID: 433025
• Location: WORMS, DE
• Hometown: SPRINGFIELD, MO, US
• Hometown: STATEN ISLAND, NY, US