New chapel program aimed at building strong families Published Aug. 29, 2013 By Scott King 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Editor's Note: This article is the last in a 4-part series on Comprehensive Airman Fitness. The goal of CAF is to help Airmen, Air Force civilians and family members become more resilient and better-equipped to deal with the rigors of military life by promoting mental, spiritual, social and physical fitness. This week's article focuses on spiritual fitness. The base chapel is starting a new "Building Strong Families" program designed to help Airmen and their families succeed in life through spiritual resiliency. It takes place on Wednesdays at 5 p.m. in the chapel annex beginning with a family meal followed by age appropriate classes designed to build strong families. The Chapel staff is committed to fostering spiritual resiliency throughout the Fairchild family. "I was reflecting on the recent storm we had that uprooted dozens of trees around the base, said Chaplain (Capt.) Jeff Solheim. "Amazingly enough, some trees remained unscathed. Like the trees, storms will come to each of us at one time or another. Storms may come in a relationship, a health diagnosis, stress at work or a fire that destroys homes. Some storms are brief while others seem to last forever. The brief storm at Fairchild is a symbolic picture of life and a good reminder of the importance being deeply rooted in community. Spiritual resiliency helps us to carry on through stormy times." The classes offered at the Wednesday events vary. Two classes for adults will be offered, "The Art of Marriage" and "Gospel Identity and Discovering Who You Really Are." For children in preschool ages 2 and older through elementary school, the chapel will offer "Awana." This program is designed to build a strong spiritual foundation for children as they memorize Bible verses and complete character building activities based on biblical stories. Younger children learn through games, crafts and puppets. As they grow, children are introduced to small group interaction, community outreach, and life application of spiritual principles. "Awana" provides a comfortable place to learn and grow along with peers and is an opportunity for parents who would like their children to learn enduring values while participating in fun activities with other children. There will also be a class for high schoolers. "What helps families whither the windy gales and remain standing are helping them find communities of support like churches, synagogues, dorm communities and base housing," Solheim said. These groups become bedrocks of resiliency during times of transition or loss - this is one program designed to help them build spiritual resiliency and find community." For more information on this program call 247-2264.