READING, Pa. - Chaplain (Capt.) Christopher S. Butera provided a Catholic Mass, on Saturday June 3, 2017, at the Reading Regional Airport, using an antique World War II Catholic Mass kit.
Among the many tents that decorate the Reading Regional Airfield, the 28th Infantry Division Chaplain tent, organized by David Ferdock, provides a recollection of the strong history of the Chaplain Corps' involvement and importance in World War II. Using a traditional field service kit, Catholic Mass is provided "in the field" to any person who wishes to attend.
This year, the 728th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion's Chaplain, Butera, provided this service, for nearly 200 participants, many who were dressed in antiquated U.S. Army uniforms, and even a few German Wehrmacht soldiers.
Butera reminded the participants that, "Although the tools and equipment of the military have changed over time, as we have seen here today, one thing has remained the same, that we can find hope and security with God."
For nearly 15 years this service was provided by Ferdock's uncle, retired. Chaplain (Col.) Robert Berger, until his retirement in 2016. To keep the tradition alive he requested support from the Pennsylvania Army National Guard. Butera happily provided this support.
When asked why he wanted to keep a military chaplain involved, Ferdock stated that, "Providing Mass allows people to see how important the Chaplain Corp is to the morale and spiritual health of our military personnel."
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