Life at sea
RAN Chaplain Warwick Cuthbertson on board ship
A reflection
It is just over ten months since I began my epic journey from Rector of the Parish of Burnie, to a full time Navy Chaplain.
So many things have happened, it seems almost surreal to be at my desk writing this reflection.
Living aboard the frigate HMAS Arunta for an extended period is quite a challenge, not only for me, but for the rest of the ship's company. Living in close proximity with over 180 personnel is different! Daily routine demands discipline and a regard to those living and working nearby.
The Chaplain's role is to attend to the spiritual needs of those on board. Pastoral Care is also an important aspect, as all personnel experience the challenges of being away from home and families. Providing this support to Arunta's ship company was extremely rewarding, as we conducted our six month deployment to the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO.
During the first nine weeks of my time on board, the focus was on training to meet any challenge that may be encountered in the MEAO.
This training period, or the 'Work Up,' was both positive and negative.
It was exhausting, but provided the ideal opportunity to fully participate in the exercises and get to know the crew. Training continued during the transit to the MEAO in readiness for the first patrol. The many patrols were interspersed with port visits in Bahrain, Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Kuwait. This was the way of life till mid-April, before the long transit home.
People often ask, 'Did the Chaplain lead people to an acceptance of the Christian Faith, or a closer understanding of the love of the Lord?'
As I reflect on this question, the words of St Paul are helpful.
In 1 Corinthians 3:6 we read,
'I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.
The one who plants and the one who waters have a common purpose, but only God gives the growth.'
As Chaplains, we are conscious of our limitations. The assurance that it is God who gives the growth, gives us the confidence to perform our role.
For example, aboard HMAS Arunta (and most other war ships), the Chaplain has no designated office, chapel or private space for prayer. Flexibility is required and regular prayer time is dependant on the ship's program and the needs of any cabin mates. My prayers were said in various locations. Many were aware, when they saw me in a quiet place on deck, that I was praying.
Word got around that I prayed daily for each of the ship's company by name. Prayer requests began to be handed to me, often focusing on family members.
This in turn gave me the opportunity to establish a relationship and seek updates while ensuring people of continued prayerful support.
This was a visible sign of ministry to people who often were unaccustomed to this in their lives.
Sunday included Divine Service, followed by a Eucharist held on the upper deck. The congregation would number about eight, with a few standing near - listening but not directly participating in the service.
Others, who were unable to attend, would often enquire about the service and give an apology for not attending. Most of the ship's company were in a watch structure that required them to be on duty for 12 hours each day.
One can understand that attending church or a Christian fellowship group was not a high priority.
Most Sundays, I was asked to lead a service on a Coalition ship. The US Patrol Boats and Coast Guard Cutters were particularly appreciative of this - on some occasions 50 percent of their ship's company attended and participated enthusiastically. Some requested to see me privately to discuss issues that were troubling them at the time.
I will never forget Christmas and Easter in the MEAO - Christmas Eve Midnight Eucharist by cyalume light (no candles on board!) During Christmas I visited five Coalition ships and led services. At Easter, I stayed on an oil platform and moved amongst Coalition ships to lead Easter services.
On 24 February, I celebrated the 30th Anniversary of my ordination as priest.
When I was ordained at St David's Cathedral in Hobart, I would never have envisaged celebrating the occasion in Bahrain.
As a chaplain in the RAN in the last 24 years, I have been a member of a team who have gained the trust of members of the RAN and shown a practical expression of Christ in the Defence Force.
My Naval Chaplaincy has enriched my parish ministry and I am grateful that parishes supported this process. I look forward to further challenges in the Naval Reserve!
Warwick Cuthbertson