United Board Conference
22 January 2026
I recently had the opportunity to attend the annual United Board Conference, held under the theme “Sustaining Healthy Ministry: Three Questions Inspired by Mark’s Gospel.”
The conference brought together over fifty military chaplains from Free Church traditions, along with denominational representatives - now referred to as endorsing authorities. Over three days, we shared in fellowship, teaching, and worship. Military chaplaincy is a demanding ministry that requires resilience across physical, emotional, and spiritual dimensions. In a world marked by uncertainty and growing challenges for the Armed Forces, the conference offered a timely and much-needed space for reflection and renewal.
The programme was thoughtfully structured, with time set aside for worship, study, and discussion. The keynote speaker, Revd Nick Swanson, drew on more than 30 years of experience in pastoral ministry as a Baptist minister, as well as ten years of service in the RAF. Trained in Spiritual Accompaniment and Pastoral Supervision, Nick offered valuable insights into how pastoral supervision can support and sustain healthy ministry over the long term.
We were also greatly encouraged by a presentation from Revd Chris Shimmen of the Royal Navy, entitled “Spiritual Dynamics: Unveiling the Drivers, Anchoring the Soul, Fortifying the Armour.” Chris spoke compellingly about the importance of spiritual resilience in equipping service personnel with the inner strength and sense of purpose needed to face the realities of military life. He highlighted how chaplains play a vital role in nurturing this resilience, which is an aspect of ministry that is increasingly recognised and valued by military leadership.
It was particularly encouraging to hear accounts of chaplains serving around the world in support of service personnel. At the heart of military chaplaincy is the call to build God’s kingdom in complex and challenging environments. One example shared was of a Navy chaplain responding to requests to explore Christianity, which led to the launch of an Alpha course attended by over 50 people at different stages. The course will continue in 2026, and we pray that it will lead to even greater engagement and that many will come to faith. There is clear evidence of a growing number of military personnel searching for truth, meaning, and purpose.
It is a great privilege to serve the men and women of our Armed Forces, and a deep encouragement to know that even in times of struggle and weakness, God remains present. He strengthens those who serve and offers hope for the future. I would encourage churches to pray for Armed Forces chaplains, and for the soldiers and civilians they support. If you sense a calling to this ministry, please do get in touch with me. I would be delighted to help point you in the right direction. The recruitment process is thorough and can take up to 18 months, so even if this is not something you can pursue immediately, I would still welcome hearing from you. The Armed Forces are keen to have more people come forward for this interesting and rewarding ministry.
For further information, please visit the link here.
Bishop Paul Rochester
General Secretary
Free Churches Group
This article first appeared on the Free Churches Group Website and the Free Churches Group’s Newsletter. Used with kind permission.
