#177: Army Chaplain Scores Goals in Soccer, Ministry And Military Family Legacy

Run The Race

Long before his careers in soccer, the ministry, and Army...Retired Major Chris Cairns had deep roots of faith and military, including 106 years of unbroken active duty service in his family. We talk about all that in this episode, plus how his bringing a pro soccer team to the city in Georgia where he grew up and played the sport. (5:30) Chaplain Cairns first talks about his historic family legacy in the US Army, joining the service late at the age of 40, then serving soldiers and families as chaplain for a decade (after 18 years working for faith-based non profits). (9:13) He says PTSD was a challenge he helped troops faced, and during one rotation to South Korea, he talked 9 of his men out of committing suicide. As a Anglican Pastor, how did he handle having a diverse unit of pagans, Jewish, Catholic, etc? He talks about bringing God to soldiers and vice versa. At West Point, he played soccer, (17:09) but Chris' injuries redirected his life towards the church. (23:38) Now, this recently retired Army Chaplain is one of the investors on an ownership team for Columbus GA's new team in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL), which will reveal the team name and logo this Friday. Learn more here: https://www.columbusnpsl.com/. Cairns talks about the excitement of soccer for fans and his hopes that this team can help underprivliged kids get involved in the sport. (37:40) Growing up as an "Army brat," he talks about why he chose to be join late and be a Chaplain...having his only family legacy through their 3 kids that love Jesus and want to serve others...and the importance of the assist in soccer and life! (49:50) This Army vet closes us out in prayer. Thanks for listening to the #RunTheRace podcast! Also, write a quick review about it, on Apple podcasts. For more info and all past episodes, go to www.wtvm.com/podcast/.