Military bishop to spend Advent, Christmas in Afghanistan
Washington DC
Bp. F. Richard Spencer of the military archdiocese arrived in northern Afghanistan on Dec. 5 to spend Advent and Christmas ministering to US and NATO troops and US State Department staffers.
“It is a very humbling experience for me to join these brave military and State Department personnel during this holy season of Advent as they engage in an international effort to reduce outbreaks of terrorism that threaten both the people of Afghanistan and the people of good will everywhere,” Bp. Spencer said.
During his visit, the bishop will also celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation for six US soldiers who have been preparing to enter the Catholic Church.
“Spiritual fitness and resiliency are key tools for our personnel serving ‘God and Country’ in these peace-building efforts, which will hopefully contribute to a better world, just as we prepare the way in our hearts for the coming of our Savior, Jesus Christ, during this holy season,” he noted.
“I am thankful, by God’s grace, to be able to make a small contribution and sacrifice to that worthy cause.”
Bp. Spencer is the Archdiocese for the Military Services’ episcopal vicar for Europe and Asia. He is one of four auxiliary bishops serving under Abp. Timothy P. Broglio.
The archdiocese approves priests for on-site ministry at more than 200 locations around the world in order to serve Catholics and their families in the US armed forces, medical centers, and overseas civilian posts.
An estimated 1.5 million Catholics depend on these priests for the sacraments, counseling, and other forms of spiritual support.
The military archdiocese receives no government funding and has no parishes to support its work with weekly donations. Rather, it depends on grants and donations for survival.
Copyright © 2011 Catholic News Agency
MILITARY BISHOPS--Bp. F. Richard Spencer is pictured on right. (CNA photo)
