WIESBADEN, Germany – In a world where busy schedules often overshadow personal connections, Chaplain Oyedeji Idowu, the new United States Army Garrison Wiesbaden Chaplain, is making it a priority to foster communication among colleagues. On Dec. 13, Idowu hosted the inaugural “Chap Talk,” inviting garrison staff to engage in informal conversations over breakfast.
“If my fish don’t come to me, I’ll just go fishing,” Idowu said with a wink and a smile, emphasizing his commitment to reaching out to those around him.
Take time and reflect
The Chap Talk initiative encourages staff to take a moment to pause and reflect.
“Take a short break, pause, and reflect. You deserve it,” Idowu urged attendees. He believes that a positive outlook often starts from within, and taking time to step back can help individuals reset their perspectives.
Idowu’s focus of Chap Talk is to break down barriers between individuals, work areas, and departments, creating opportunities for brief yet meaningful interactions. His approach is designed to connect everyone, from apprentices to the Deputy Garrison Commander, and from Privates to Commanders. He plans to hold these gatherings at the end of each workweek, providing a consistent space for dialogue.
Having successfully implemented similar meetings at Joint Base San Antonio (formerly Fort Sam Houston), Idowu has seen firsthand the benefits of informal gatherings. Initially at that base, his meetings attracted only three participants, but attendance grew to seven and eventually included the entire Brigade Staff, demonstrating the value of open communication.
The right place at the right time
U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden, Deputy Garrison Commander Mitchell Jones attended the first Chap Talk and expressed his enthusiasm, telling Idowu, “You’re in the right place at the right time.”
Jones emphasized the importance of taking a brief respite to engage in communication and self-reflection, noting that such experiences are invaluable.
Idowu’s unique approach extends beyond formal meetings. He has a golf pad in his office, where commanders and managers can often seek a moment of relaxation.
“While this may seem a simple pursuit, it is precisely the simplicity that allows managers to unwind amidst the stressors of their daily lives,” he explained. These informal interactions often lead to deeper conversations, allowing Idowu to offer guidance and support.
Reflecting on his journey, Idowu shared that he followed his calling to become a chaplain, serving as a spiritual leader since his college days. His ability to connect with Soldiers and understand their experiences has been crucial in providing support during difficult times.
“Practicing empathy has dramatically improved my ability to care for the Soldiers and their family members,” he noted.
Idowu recounted a poignant experience from his time in Hawaii, where he comforted Soldiers grieving the loss of their comrades.
“I lost two of my Soldiers, who were pilots,” he recalled. “The commander asked me to go to the hangar to comfort the Soldiers. As I entered the hangar, one of the Soldiers, who had been waiting for me to show up, asked me, “Why did God killed those Soldiers?”” “I paused for several moments, allowing him to express his feelings,” he said. This moment of vulnerability highlighted the profound impact of his role.
As a chaplain, Idowu faces unique challenges, including the need to speak truth to commanders and people in power.
“It is often more difficult and daunting than going to ranger school or tackling a demanding job,” he admitted. Balancing his religious beliefs with the diverse faiths of the Soldiers he serves is also essential.
“I practice my beliefs and encourage others to do the same,” he said.
Idowu believes that faith plays a significant role in the resilience of Soldiers, providing support during tough times and helping them navigate life’s ups and downs. His goal is to make a positive and meaningful impact wherever he is stationed, leaving the chaplaincy in a better state than when he first joined.
As the Chap Talk initiative unfolds, it promises to create a culture of connection and support within the U.S. Army Garrison Wiesbaden, reminding everyone that taking time to talk can break down barriers and foster a sense of community.
For more information about USAG Wiesbaden Religious Services, visit: https://home.army.mil/wiesbaden/about/garrison/rso
All press releases from U.S. Department of the Army
