US Soldiers deployed in support of Operation United Assistance (deployment to Africa in response to the Ebola outbreak) have many of the same — if not more — logistical challenges as those deployed further downrange. Chaplain (LtCol) David Bowlus described conducting outdoor worship services in Monrovia, Liberia, as the chapel tent ended up being requisitioned to house other Soldiers.

The article on the chaplains in Africa noted they are deployed in support of US troops — but they serve all who come:

While the Army chaplains are here to service American troops, anyone who is cleared to come onto the BTC can attend the worship services to include the Armed Forces of Liberia and local Liberian contractors.

Milton Lomax, a driver and Monrovia native who attended on Sunday, said the service was nice and well conducted.

“It brings the two nationalities together and we introduce different cultures, songs,” he said. “It’s awesome.”

In a display of boldness and faith, Lomax also said the US military presence in Liberia is an answer to prayer:

“We believe and worship God,” he said. “Our trust and our hearts are placed in Jesus and because of our constant prayer, today you people are here. God answers us.”

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Photo caption: Captain Chris Doering, Catholic priest, 101st Special Troops Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade, 101st Airborne (Air Assault) Division, Joint Forces Command – United Assistance, conducts Catholic Mass for Soldiers deployed in support of Operation United Assistance in Monrovia, Liberia, Nov. 16, 2014… (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. V. Michelle Woods, 27th Public Affairs Detachment/RELEASED)

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