Outreach Ministry
Veterans & Military Ministry
St. Mary's Episcopal Church proudly stands alongside those who serve — honoring our veterans, active duty service members, reservists, and their families through prayer, presence, and pastoral care.
"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends."
— John 15:13
Meet Our Chaplain
Mother Ginger — Air Force Reserve Chaplain
St. Mary's is blessed to be served by Mother Ginger, who brings a truly unique dimension of ministry to our community. In addition to her role as our parish priest, she is a commissioned Air Force Reserve Chaplain, called to serve those who serve our nation.
Each year, Mother Ginger fulfills one month of active duty service as a military chaplain, providing spiritual care, pastoral support, and a compassionate presence to active duty service members and their families.
Current Assignment
87th Air Base Wing
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, NJ
Our Commitment
Ministering to Those Who Serve
At St. Mary's, we believe the Church has a profound calling to care for those in uniform — past and present — and the families who support them. Our ministry is grounded in prayer, community, and the enduring love of Christ.
Mother Ginger's firsthand experience in the military community gives St. Mary's a unique ability to understand and respond to the specific spiritual, emotional, and practical needs of veterans and service members.
- Prayer and pastoral support for veterans, active duty, and reservists
- Care and community for military families, including those facing deployment
- Recognition and honor of veterans at special services and observances
- A welcoming church home for all who have served or are currently serving
Civil Air Patrol Chaplaincy
Chaplain Ministry with Civil Air Patrol
In addition to her Air Force Reserve service, Mother Ginger serves as both a Civil Air Patrol Squadron Chaplain and a Civil Air Patrol Group Chaplain — bringing pastoral care, mentorship, and character formation to young people and adult members alike.
Civil Air Patrol (CAP) is the official auxiliary of the United States Air Force, known for its aerospace education, emergency services, and its robust cadet program for young people. As a CAP chaplain, Mother Ginger provides pastoral care and spiritual support to CAP members of all ages — from the youngest cadets to seasoned adult volunteers.
Cadet Program
Supporting teens ages 12–21 in their personal growth and development through CAP's cadet program.
Adult Members
Providing pastoral care, guidance, and spiritual support to adult CAP volunteers and senior members.
What Mother Ginger Teaches in CAP
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Resilience
Building the inner strength to persevere through challenges, setbacks, and adversity.
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Character Development
Nurturing integrity, honor, and ethical decision-making in all aspects of life and service.
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Spiritual Wellness
Encouraging reflection, meaning, and a sense of purpose in service to others and to God.
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Leadership & Service
Equipping cadets and adults to lead with compassion, courage, and a servant's heart.
About Civil Air Patrol
Civil Air Patrol is the official civilian auxiliary of the United States Air Force. With over 60,000 members nationwide, CAP's cadet program offers young men and women ages 12–21 the opportunity to develop leadership, aerospace knowledge, and personal character in a structured, values-driven environment guided by dedicated volunteer adult members — including chaplains like Mother Ginger.
How We Serve
Ways We Support Our Military Community
From active duty service members to retirees, from Gold Star families to those transitioning back to civilian life — St. Mary's is here for you.
Spiritual Care
Pastoral counseling, prayer, and spiritual guidance tailored to the unique experiences of military life — including the challenges of service, combat, and transition.
Family Support
A caring congregation that rallies around military families — especially during deployments, homecomings, and the everyday challenges of a life in service to the nation.
Veterans' Healing
A compassionate space for veterans navigating PTSD, moral injury, grief, or the search for meaning and purpose after their years of dedicated service.
Diocese of Central Pennsylvania
A Diocese-Wide Ministry for Veterans & Service Members
Mother Ginger's ministry extends beyond the walls of St. Mary's. She is actively working to establish a diocese-wide ministry through the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania to support military members and veterans across our entire region.
This growing network seeks to connect veterans and service members throughout the diocese with spiritual care, community, and mutual support — no matter which parish they call home.
Join the Diocesan Veterans & Military Community
If you are a veteran, active duty service member, reservist, or military family member in the Diocese of Central Pennsylvania, we invite you to join this growing support community. Simply visit the diocesan website and fill out the form to be included.
Sign Up at the Diocesan WebsiteDiocese of Central Pennsylvania
Connecting veterans and military members with faith communities and support throughout the diocese.
Learn MoreAre You a Veteran or Service Member?
St. Mary's welcomes you — whether you are seeking community, spiritual support, or simply a place to belong. We are honored by your service and grateful for your sacrifice.
Get in Touch Visit St. Mary's112 East 2nd St., Waynesboro, PA 17268
