These trying times were amplified 10,000% during the COVID-19 Pandemic. The clergy staff at the hospital became the lifeline between patient and their families. As no visitors were allowed into hospitals Chaplain Meisels became the only “Family” patients had visiting them. He was the connection from the community to patients in their most dire times. His Ministry did not stop with the patients and their families. The hospital staffs and the Front Line workers were in desperate need of help as well. Without dropping a beat he stepped in to make sure they had food so they could keep working. Then finding ways to make the work bearable, whether by getting items of comfort to the staff or just being there to offer comfort.
Chaplain Meisels has truly embodied the Coast Guard Auxiliary’s motto of Semper Paratus, “Always Ready". The Coast Guard and the Auxiliary are now able to be ready for any scenario least of all its “Spiritual Needs". With his Honor, Respect, and Devotion to Duty, Mr. Meisels has now lent his talents as a Chaplain to the Auxiliary Chaplain Support Program. It is a great honor to be an Auxiliarist with him.
Chaplain Meisels (right) providing comfort items for patients and staff.