If you were like me, you grew up watching M*A*S*H. The lovable adventures of Hawkeye, Trapper, Frank, Margaret, Henry, Radar, Col. Potter, Klinger, B.J., Charles, and yes, Father John Patrick Mulcahy. Father Mulcahy was the post chaplain in this Korea War sitcom with his character going clear back to the original movie.

Father Mulcahy provided a bit of sanity as a bit of comic relief. He tended to be the straight man to the team of comic stars. He had a strong faith, yet he had struggles. While I never really wanted to be a military chaplain growing up, I never thought I would be a fire chaplain. But as a person of faith growing up, I had a lot of respect for that character. Maybe some of Father John Patrick Mulcahy has rubbed off on me and encouraged my growth as a public safety chaplain.

With that, here are some things that we can learn as chaplains from the character of Father Mulcahy.

1. Most ministry happens in the stress of daily life. The interruptions are the ministry. In the midst of the confusion, you always saw Father Mulcahy helping in some way. Be there to help. Your only job isn't to provide the sacraments of confession and last rites. Ministry comes in many different forms.

2. Live and interact with those around you, but make sure you have time away with God. Remember that a chaplain that isn't seen is a chaplain that isn't used. And always respect your faith. It was not uncommon for you to see him in the Officers Club or even in the SWAMP with the guys in the evening. He knew ministry happened best among friends. But you also knew that he had a daily time with God.

3. You are a vital part of the interdisciplinary team. You have a very important role. He struggled with it at times, but that is ok. It kept his role honest. He also knew where the doctors role ended and his began. And nothing would stop that.

4. You may sound and talk like you're innocent of the ways of the world, but be very wise about what is going on. Father Mulcahy talked very innocent much of the time, but I believe he understood what was going on around him.

5. Use your rank and position to help others. My favorite quote from him was, "The meek shall inherit the earth, but it is the grumpy who gets promoted." Use your promotion and rank to help others. That is what it's there for.

6. This job may not be for you if you can't handle the blood, guts, high stress, and a little foul language. Just like in war, the things first responders and chaplains see and hear can be awful. If you cannot handle it, this job may not be the best for you, and that's OK.

But in the end, what really drew me to the character of Father Mulcahy was his compassion and ethics. He was a man who loved God and the people around him but always kept true to his faith. And this was a good reflection of Christ in him.