A small gesture can make a big difference in the life of an American soldier stationed overseas. It can also be an effective way to share the Gospel, according to Pat Kellenbarger of the Presbyterian Council for Chaplains and Military Personnel (PCCMP).

Along with lobbying support for the PCCMP, Kellenbarger has been busy in recent years rallying individual Presbyterians and congregations to offer their own time and talents in a way that helps military chaplains minister to American soldiers.

“The U.S. military is the largest young adult youth group in the world,” she said. “The majority of our military have no church affiliation. Many are disillusioned with religion.”

However, they do respect military chaplains because those ministers stand unarmed and shoulder-to-shoulder with the soldiers on the front lines. Kellenbarger said the bonds they are able to develop are unbelievable. Citing their “ministry of presence,” soldiers often prefer speaking with chaplains about personal problems rather than mental health professionals, she added.

Kellenbarger, who is active in the military ministry at Solano Beach Presbyterian Church near San Diego, Calif., is seeking help from Presbyterians across the country to reach the thousands of soldiers serving the United States and their families. The ways individuals and congregations can help are simple.

Kellenbarger has been hosting 30-minute workshops on how to make “Cool Collars” and “Helmet Coolers.” Most commonly used by gardeners, golfers and travelers trying to stay cool, the simple-to-make crafts can make a life or death difference for soldiers in the extreme conditions of Iraq and Afghanistan.

“These two items are known to cool the brain about 4 degrees,” she said. “They fight heat fatigue and help our troops think more clearly.”

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