Portugal holds national gathering for military and security chaplains

The Escola da Guarda in Queluz hosted a national commemoration for the Day of Saint John of Capistrano, the patron saint of military and security force chaplains. Organized by the Guarda Nacional Republicana (GNR), the event brought together dozens of active and retired priests from mainland Portugal, the Azores, and Madeira.

This unprecedented gathering united chaplains from the Navy, Army, Air Force, GNR, and the Public Security Police (PSP). During the ceremony, Bishop Sérgio Dinis, the Bishop of the Armed Forces and Security Forces, called upon dioceses and religious congregations to provide new priests to address the need for more chaplains. He emphasized the importance of total commitment to those serving in the military and security sectors.

Representatives from the GNR and the Escola da Guarda highlighted the role of spiritual assistance in providing comfort during times of affliction and expressed interest in developing new joint social and pastoral projects.