Each year, more than 600,000 military families move to new communities. These frequent transitions can be both disruptive and isolating — and faith communities are often among the first places families turn to find connection and belonging.
For many service members, veterans, and their loved ones, faith leaders are a trusted source of support. Yet too often, these leaders may not have insight into the unique experiences and challenges faced by the military community. With greater awareness and understanding, faith leaders can play a powerful role in helping families feel seen, supported, and welcomed.
To strengthen that support, Cohen Veterans Network and Blue Star Families partnered to host a virtual Faith Leader Military Awareness and Support Training during the sixth annual Blue Star Welcome Week. The session equipped faith leaders of all denominations with tools and insights to better serve military and veteran families within their congregations.
Watch the full training recording below:
BG (Ret.) Mike Fleming, Sr. Manager of Community Relations for Cohen Veterans Network, Chaplain Eric Wester of the North Florida / South Georgia Veterans Health System for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and Leah Love, Director of Brand Marketing and Community Engagement at Blue Star Families present our Faith Leader Military Awareness and Support Training.)
Additional resources for Faith Leader Resources are available via The Fire Watch.
By bridging military culture and faith communities, leaders can create spaces where veterans and their families not only find support but truly belong.