Reverend Joseph E. Kurtz, D.D. Bishop | Archdiocese of Louisville

As the conflict in Ukraine continues, Father Patrick Dolan, a retired priest from the Archdiocese of Louisville, has embarked on a mission to Kyiv. His objective is to train National Guard chaplains and cadets to identify and support individuals suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and moral injury.

Father Dolan, who served nearly thirty years as a chaplain and retired as a brigadier general in the U.S. Army, is currently an ecclesiastical assistant with the Apostolat Militaire International (AMI). This lay apostolate of Catholic military personnel organized the training initiative. The group aims to instill Catholic principles within military contexts and is recognized by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life. "Encouraging all those devoted to serving their homeland," its website states that AMI members advise the pope on various matters.

From March 29 to April 7, Father Dolan collaborated with Dr. Eric Vermetten, a Dutch psychiatrist specializing in PTSD and moral injury. Reflecting on his time in Ukraine's capital city of Kyiv—home to approximately 2.5 million people—Father Dolan observed evidence of war amidst attempts at normalcy: “Many young people out in the streets on a Sunday evening trying to live a normal life during a time of war.”

According to Father Dolan, Ukrainian soldiers exhibit varying symptoms of PTSD such as hypervigilance while others endure moral injuries when compelled into actions contrary to their conscience. While justifications exist under “just war” criteria for such acts during defense efforts against aggressors; he notes they still challenge fundamental beliefs about human life's intrinsic value.

The purpose behind this training effort extends beyond immediate coping mechanisms; it seeks holistic mental-spiritual healing outcomes among participants: "The goal...is for individuals heal mentally spiritually," explained Father Dolan.