Date of Award

Fall 2025

Document Type

Abstract

Degree Name

Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL)

Department

Organizational Leadership

First Advisor

Dr. Emile Hawkins

Second Advisor

Dr. Katherine Hutchins

Abstract

This presentation, 'Building Spiritual Resilience Through Generational Connections in Military Chapels,' explores how intentional organizational design can turn generational divides into opportunities to strengthen faith communities. This research is based on qualitative ethnographic study of three Protestant chapel services—Traditional, Gospel, and Contemporary—to evaluate how different worship styles and cultural expectations affect engagement among retired military members (Baby Boomers and Gen X) and active-duty service members (Millennials and Gen Z). Using Senge’s (2006) systems thinking, Galbraith’s (2014) Star Model, and Schein and Schein’s (2016) organizational cultural framework, the study identified four essential pillars for building resilient chapels: valuing connections, fostering mentorship, integrating technology, and practicing inclusivity. The research showed that resilience is fully achieved by embracing and balancing both tradition (favored by retirees) and innovation (preferred by active-duty military). Notable plans include cross-generational mentorship (which involves vertical and lateral communication), blended worship, utilizing technology for outreach, and inclusive practices—where all generations are valued and supported equally. The study also incorporated cross-cultural insights from Hofstede et al. (2010) on cultural dimensions and Cameron and Quinn’s (2019), highlighting how leadership should adapt to generational and cultural demands to stay relevant. Overall, this project demonstrates that generational differences are opportunities rather than obstacles, fostering a stronger connection to faith and spiritual growth. Applying the four- pillar resilience model can help chapels become a vibrant spiritual ecosystem that honors the past while embracing the future. This framework provides practical tools for military chaplains and chapel lay leaders to enhance and strengthen spiritual resilience and readiness across generations.

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