Seventy-five years have passed since a photograph was taken during the Korean War that would later become an iconic image of faith and resilience. On October 7, 1950, then-Major Raymond Skeehan, a U.S. Army doctor with the 1st Cavalry Division, captured a moment at a field Mass as American troops prepared to enter North Korea.

The photograph shows Fr. Emil Kapaun, dressed in a chasuble and combat boots, with his hands raised in prayer, saying “Dominus Vobiscum,” which means “The Lord be with you.” The image was taken just before the conclusion of Mass and has since been recognized around the world.

At the time, Skeehan did not anticipate the significance the image would take on. “All he knew was that this priest brought him peace in the time of war, both in sacrament and by his very presence,” the account recalls.

Fr. Emil Kapaun had arrived in Korea in July 1950, shortly after North Korea’s invasion of the South. He became known for his presence on the front lines, offering prayers and support to soldiers under fire. According to letters he wrote to his childhood pastor, Msgr. John Sklenar, Kapaun narrowly escaped death multiple times but continued his ministry. “Three times I myself nearly got killed, but always the Lord spares me, so I can be of service to the soldiers,” he wrote.

Testimonies from those who served with him highlight his dedication. PFC Ernest Ritter said, “He climbed many a hill and mountain just so he could make some lonely G.I. feel a little better after talking to him.”

Fr. Kapaun’s efforts extended beyond spiritual care; he was known for rescuing wounded soldiers under fire and encouraging others through difficult times. In radio addresses before his deployment, he stated: “The peace which God gives is a gift which exists even in suffering, in want, or even in time of war.”

Less than a month after the Jeep Mass photo was taken, Fr. Kapaun celebrated four Masses on All Saints Day near Unsan, North Korea. These were his last Masses before his unit was attacked by Chinese forces. During the battle, he continued to serve both physically and spiritually, actions for which he was later awarded the Medal of Honor.

A conversation from that day between Fr. Kapaun and Sergeant Bill Richardson was recalled: “Do you know what today is, Sergeant?” Father asked. “It’s All Souls Day.” When Richardson responded skeptically about someone watching over their souls, Kapaun replied, “He is, he is.”

Scott Carter, coordinator for the Diocese of Wichita’s Office for the Beatification of Venerable Emil Kapaun, reflected on Kapaun’s legacy: “No matter our calling in life, Venerable Emil Kapaun is a model and intercessor for the fortitude and dedication to seek out those most in need of Christ. We need not fear obstacles or rejection when seeking out the lost and lonely.”