A Chaplain's Story
A first-person account from an RCI officer, published in The Drill Magazine, Vol. 2.
Approaching retirement after decades in public service, one RCCG pastor faced the question many active people dread: what would engage the mind once the daily schedule ended? Retirement without demanding work can be devastating — and in that season, RCI appeared on the horizon.
A ceremonial parade for the General Overseer's eightieth birthday became the turning point. The precision, colour, and discipline of the Corps left a lasting impression — enough to pursue membership seriously.
Training began with the unfamiliar rhythm of aerobics, drills, and march-past after years away from physical exercise. Gradually, monthly drills became something to look forward to rather than endure. Pre-commissioning week at the Convention — seven intense days — prepared the set for commissioning at Redemption City.
Commissioning brought a full march-past in white ceremonial uniform, rank decoration by transparent criteria, and assignment to battalion life: monthly Communion in camp, Holy Ghost services on first Thursdays and Fridays, and early-morning drills that keep officers fit for altar security, crowd management, and community service.
The officer describes RCI as filling a gap — a platform for Service to Humanity that combines spiritual calling with paramilitary discipline, respect on the road and in society, and practical skills from CPR to crisis presence. Gratitude is expressed to training command and the Governing Council for building a corps where discipline, humility, and meekness are not optional extras but operational requirements.