Chaplains are appointed to a Military Installation by their Bishop or Religious Superior after consulation with the Head Chaplain and following approval by the Minister for Defence.

Archbishop Martin is pictured with Revs Robert McCabe, Eoin Thynne, David Tyndall, Des Campion & Pat Mernagh following Mass at St Mary's, Rathmines.

All bring with them qualifications and skills in from a wide range of pastoral care situations as university chaplains and lecturers, former missionaries, teachers, musicians, broadcasting, sportsmen.

Cadet Guard of Honour at the Consecration during Mass in the Upper Basilica in Lourdes

These skills blend in with the opportunities to engage with the personnel of the Defence Forces in their work, prayer and in dealing with their families.

At present there are fifteen chaplains serving the Defence Forces. When one of them is serving overseas, his duties are filled by a substitute clergyman.

Chaplains do not carry rank. Instead they hold the title "Chaplain to the Forces" (CF).

St Barbara's Chapel, Columb Barracks, Mullingar