Chaplains continue services, counseling virtually

  • Published
  • By Lauren Russell
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs

HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – The Hanscom chaplain corps is using virtual worship services to connect with parishioners while maintaining physical distancing.

Personnel can use social media to watch and interact with recorded and live sermons.

Personnel can find that information on the Chapel’s main Facebook page: www.facebook.com/Hanscom-Air-Foce-Base-Chapel-Community-160221954033129/. The page also has information on individual local parishes.

“We want to make sure people know that we’re still available and here for them,” said Chaplain (Maj.) Joseph Watson, installation chaplain. “We are still on call to help with any kind of need, either religious or not.”

Watson said that, although a lot of what his team does is religious in nature, they are available to assist with any need, spiritual or not.

“Some people can be more affected by isolation than others, but sometimes you just need some human connection,” he said. “We’re here to listen if someone just needs to talk, or vent. We’re here to take care of people.”

The chaplains are also available for 100 percent confidential counseling, a service only available through chapel corps members, commissioned and enlisted. 

“We don’t have to talk about religion, we’re just here to help no matter what,” said Chaplain (Capt.) Shawn Taylor.”

Personnel can reach the emergency on-call chaplain 24/7 at 781-953-6913.

For non-emergencies, or questions about virtual services, call the Chapel at 781-225-5501.