TY  - BOOK
AU  - Montgomery, Chad
TI  - A Biblical Critique of the Spiritual Aspect of Resiliency Training in the Usaf with Specific Reference Towards Coordination of Chaplains
PY  - 2016///
CY  - Johannesburg, South Africa
PB  - South African Theological Seminary
KW  - Theology, Practical
KW  - Military Chaplains
KW  - United States of America
N2  - Military Chaplains have a long history of being at the forefront of Church and State relationships.  They have served in various capacities throughout history at times being limited strictly to traditional religious duties and at other times serving in numerous other ways including combat actions.  This study addresses the topics of the possibility of religious neutrality, a proper outworking of the first amendment of the United States Constitution in the United States Air Force and a theology of practice for Christian Chaplains while focusing research on the specific topic of soul care.  The Air Force seeks resiliency for its Airmen in order to maintain their mission readiness and effectiveness.  One attempt to bring this about has been an increase in resiliency initiatives and training.  The training content and initiatives are often counterfeit to and in conflict with the religious faith of many Airmen.  Religion has been relegated by many in the Air Force to occupy only a small section, the religious section of one’s life.  For the Christian, a biblically informed worldview speaks to every area of life including the concepts labelled by the Air Force as resiliency.  This study utilizes original Air Force Chaplain and non-Chaplain documentation, Air Force Histories, Air Force regulations, Department of Defense regulations, personal interviews, Air Force Resiliency Curriculum and more to demonstrate the distinct and crucial role that Chaplains have and must continue to hold in providing resilient Airmen.  A contrast between what the Air Force provides and what Chaplains provide is made while demonstrating that Chaplains provide access to a faith community, not just separate training and events.  A biblical approach to resiliency is accomplished by exegesis of various relevant scripture passages and utilizing biblical themes and categories to inform this topic.  Strategic recommendations are made for Air Force leaders at all levels in order to advance the first amendment’s celebration of religious freedom by empowering Chaplains to provide alternative avenues for Airmen to receive resiliency initiatives and training rather than mandate secularized training to Christians and other religions
ER  -