AMC Chaplain visits dorm residents Published April 23, 2009 By Chaplain, Capt Erik Harp FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Fairchild dorm residents were recently surprised when they arrived to the Airman's Lounge for "Pizza with the Padre" and were greeted by the Air Mobility Command command chaplain, Chaplain, Col. Brian Van Sickle and the AMC command chaplain assistant, Chief Master Sergeant Roger Dubois. Chaplain Van Sickle and Chief Dubois came to Fairchild for a Pastoral Support Visit where they visit AMC bases to oversee religious support to the AMC community. This visit was unique as it marked the first time the Command Chaplain was able to personally see the Chapel Staff's ministry to Single Airmen using Airmen Ministry Centers--a new model for ministry. During the pizza social, Chaplain Van Sickle engaged several Airmen regarding questions they had about relationships and through the course of the evening Chaplain Van Sickle shared insights and answered questions Airman posed. The Fairchild's Airmen Ministry Center was established in late 2008 under the direction of the Wing Chaplain, Chaplain, Maj. Kelvin Gardner. This model moves ministry from the chapel to the dormitories, creating new and innovative ways of providing spiritual care. One of the chief goals of the Airmen Ministry Center is building a community where Single Airmen feel at home and connected to each other. This connecting is done through socials like the pizza feed Chaplain Van Sickle visited and through outings like ski trips, visiting local attractions or providing community service. Additionally, Fairchild Spouses have taken a very active role in helping our Airmen build community by providing a meal each month to one of the nine dormitories and by bringing baked goods twice a month to the Airman's Lounge which is a central gathering place and the heart of FAMC activities. In the coming months and throughout summer the FAMC will be offering many exciting outings to include: Silverwood, kayaking, and even a trip to Seattle to watch the Mariners. Additionally, there will be pizza and sub sandwich feeds, which are made possible due to the generous support of our wing leadership. Details regarding these activities will be sent out via the Fairchild First Four e-mail distribution list.