A key focus of the VMI Chaplain’s Office is providing and participating in meaningful events that engage cadets, their families, and members of the VMI community. These opportunities help build connections, inspire personal and collective growth, and strengthen a heart for helping others.

The following list is not exhaustive, but represents major events that typically occur on an annual basis:

STP Support

Every July a portion of the incoming rat class chooses to attend the VMI Summer Transition Program (STP) to get acclimated to life on post. This is a prime opportunity for the chaplains to make in-roads with rats before they matriculate. They take part in physical training and other events and lead a bi-weekly lunchtime Bible study. During the first week of the program the office also hosts an evening picnic for all students, counselors, and program leaders. Representatives from other VMI offices are also invited along with leaders from our parachurch organizations.  

 

Matriculation Day Prayer

Each year on Matriculation Day, rats (VMI freshmen) along with their families and loved ones are invited to a brief non-denominational prayer service. For those who attend, this is a memorable moment of fellowship and calm amid the day’s flurry of activity, as we take time to reflect, give thanks, and ask for support before the ratline officially begins. The office is also represented at the Matriculation Day Fair to connect directly with new VMI families.

 

Matriculation Sunday & Rat Sunday

The Sunday after Matriculation Day is Matriculation Sunday. Rats are not allowed to leave post, so an opportunity to engage in their faith is provided by the Chaplain’s Office in partnership with other local faith leaders.  An opportunity to take a breather, be encouraged, and learn more about the office’s role at VMI is also provided for those from lower density faiths or those who do not identify with any religion.

Rat Sunday occurs on the last day of matriculation week. In the morning, rats receive a brief from Chaplain Casper about the role of our office and have an opportunity to engage with local faith communities and attend services off post. We are incredibly grateful for the support and fellowship offered to our cadets by over 30 churches and religious organizations in Lexington and the surrounding area.

 

Ring Blessing

One of the most anticipated milestones of a cadetship is earning the VMI class ring during one’s 2nd Class (junior) year. Our office supports a cadet-organized optional ring blessing service after the presentation ceremony. This is a meaningful time of reflection and thanksgiving as the 2nd Class looks back on their first two years at the Institute and ahead to what is still to be accomplished. Hosted in Memorial Hall, this event is open to cadets along with their families and Ring Figure Ball dates as well as all members of the VMI community.  

 

Candlelight Service

A visually stirring event, and a highlight of the holiday season, the office hosts a candlelight service in Memorial Hall as part of Spirit Night at the Institute each December.

 

Spring Retreat

In the Spring semester the chaplains lead a non-denominational spiritual retreat off-post, usually at Eagle Eyrie Conference Center. Tucked into the woods of the Appalachian Mountains, this location is a superb place for cadets from all classes to get away from post to recharge and be motivated in their faith journey. Speakers from past years include notable alumni, distinguished military leaders, and chaplains.

 

Humanitarian Trips

For several years the Chaplain’s Office and their cadet volunteers have partnered with the nonprofit humanitarian aid organization, Samaritan’s Purse, to assist in disaster relief and rebuilding efforts in multiple locations across the nation. Occurring over Spring break, this has historically been a highly impactful experience for the cadets who sacrifice their break to help those in need.

 

Baccalaureate Service

Each May during Graduation week, the office hosts an inter-faith Baccalaureate service to celebrate the sustaining faith of graduating 1st Class cadets. Those who were particularly active in their respective faith communities are recognized for their efforts and contributions.  In recent years, high-profile guest speakers have delivered the keynote address, including Chiefs and Deputy Chiefs of Chaplains from all branches of the armed services.