Coupstick Chaplain

“Lord, you have made your bow quite ready, and called for many arrows. You have fashioned each by hand and sworn an oath over all.”(Hab. 3:9)

This site is dedicated to the memory of David Pendleton, Oka ha-tuh, Cheyenne warrior and Episcopal Deacon, and those Kiowa Koitsenko who followed “The Jesus Road.”

“Remember when I went first and you followed; I follow another now, his name is Jesus, what he says is true and he only makes war for peace!”

(Pendleton)

Commission

As a Kiowa-Na’ishan Christian Chaplain, the militancy of my future calling was declared at the time of my “second baptism” when these words were spoken over me – “The Lord has called you from your mother’s womb and made mention of your name among her people. He has made your mouth like a sharpened sword, and like a polished shaft in his quiver he has hidden you; in the shadow of his hand he has concealed you.” (Is. 49:1,2)

Mission

The Coupstick Chaplain was envisioned as an independent Native American Christian chaplaincy for the Warrior Community at large, including those Veteran non-profits and American Indian Warrior Societies that continue to represent and support them.

This blog’s expressed purpose then, while religious in connotation, seeks to inform the audience as to the underlying spiritual reality of the created world and its potential in terms of what we think and do. This then becomes of particular importance when it comes to force projection and leadership within the military. The fact being that ones’ ethos can influence every decision made. Not only is this of great importance when it comes to process, but outcome, as it can have a direct impact on wellness and spiritual resilience within the ranks of those you command. This then is central to the equation, as it can effect the rationale and objectives of combat.

In consideration of the fact, although wars are fought for political purposes, religion continues to remain an important consideration. Terminology such as righteous warfare, just cause, or “the warrior ethos” can not only serve to justify, but sanctify warfare, thereby serving to relieve any sense of culpability when it comes to morality, by virtue of an intellectual transference of responsibility to an ultimate spiritual authority, or God. Yet that only goes so far, as the dictates of scripture and spiritual law place the burden of justification, not only on earthly authorities, but military leadership, if not the individual. In the final analysis, it often becomes less about bullets and more about water, as personal trauma and moral injury can often only be resolved through a reconstitution of one’s spirit. “And the angel showed me a pure river, of water of life, as clear as crystal, that issued from the throne of God and the Lamb.” (Rev. 22:1, KJV) The inference being, that while the river is there for anyone to drink from, one must first believe that the river exists before they can bow the knee to drink.

Yet, when we speak of a righteous endeavor, particularly when it comes to war, positive outcomes demand a certain idealism, embodiment of purpose and demeanor. As for those who are quick to disdain, faith is like a braided chain, a fast-rope of duty and honor that takes a particular type. The same that the Lord God Hashem-Elohim looked for when selecting Gideon’s 300, –“…choosing only those few who lapped the water with their bare hands.” (Judges 7:6) While this is perhaps one of the best illustrations we have of The Warrior Ethos; this characteristic has been noted among the angelic hosts as well, the Archangel Michael, “The Angel of War” being the primary example. Yet there is more to the story that is often left untold. The Lord’s direct involvement in Israel’s preparation for war at that particular time and place can be seen as not only a tacit approval of war when necessity demands it, but an endorsement of the warrior class itself. This then is of some importance, particularly when viewed through the lens of geopolitics today. Unfortunately, while many view defense as counterintuitive in regards to peace, current events argue otherwise. In spite of our best intentions, war has continued to be a recurring theme throughout human history. A sobering realization, especially considering that no amount of religious idealism or wishful thinking has ever been able to alter the fact.

As for those who may feel inclined to challenge that assumption, there is probably no better place to do so than within the military, as its avowed purpose is to defend the principles of the US Constitution. For that reason, an appropriate appellation may be in order. While “The Warrior Ethos” may be the popular meme, it pales in comparison to wisdom gleaned from sages seen. And it was from those I learned of valor earned and glory spurned. Not surprisingly, I discovered that the subject has had lasting appeal; appearing time and again throughout history. In the Greek and Roman world for instance, Homers’ Iliad and Odyssey was considered to be the primary source when it came to social conduct and honor befitting that of a warrior. The lesson being, that while evil has always existed in the world, woe to those through which it comes. And in response, it was always the noble character of the hero himself that stood him in good stead to become the one that set things straight.

With that in mind, two examples emerge. One. That of our own historical, egalitarian and meritocratic warrior societies, which in our case still continue to celebrate the “Kiowa martial ethos.” (Meadows, 65). Two. The archetypal life of Jesus of Nazareth, whose sanctity, spiritual advocacy and confrontational sense of divine purpose reads like something out of the Red-letter Edition of a Warrior’s Manifesto. And this I found to be quite interesting, as it is very much in keeping with our own martial history, when holy men were both visionaries and warriors of renown. Their legacy in turn serving to remind us that what is needed even now is not simply the lance, but the coupstick, wielded by compassionate leader-thinkers who are as good at building bridges as they are about busting bunkers. Yet, while “quiet professionals” all, they must needs be “Peaceful Warriors” still.

As for myself, while I continue to entertain a certain pragmatic idealism when it comes to this country, its purpose and people, as a person of Native descent, well-versed in our own trials and tribulations with the Federal Government, I will hedge my bets. And while my primary role remains that of a chaplain, a “Dog Soldier” might be a better descriptive, as order connotes to disciplinary action, whether it be with a quirt, or the point of a pen.

Coupstick Chaplain

For the record, the Coupstick Chaplain remains non-denominational in perspective, believing that salvation from self and the evils of this world is best served through simplicity of faith and selfless service. Yet, as a Christian chaplain, standing alongside those willing to put their lives on the line for others, and the ideals of American liberty, I not only acknowledge, but respect any number of faith expressions. How could it be otherwise, when my own Native people are not only representative of a multitude of missionary Churches, but remain traditional in many of their religious observances as well. And it is from that perspective that I offer this. The vast majority of religious expressions that I come in contact with on a regular basis have one essential thing in common, a belief in an ultimate spiritual authority and arbitrator, who prosecutes justice with mercy. In turn not only serving to validate one’s own existence, but ultimate purpose and potential future.

It follows then that I would not only endorse The First Amendment to the US Constitution, “freedom of religion,” but the “wall of separation” between “church and state.” In doing so, I not only acknowledge our lawful right to the religion of our choice, but affirm what the spirit of the law implies, that we are “endowed by our Creator with certain inalienable rights.” Nonetheless, I am not without reservation when it comes to the law itself, as the potential for religious extremism also exists within our right to religious freedom. The issue being that when religious tolerance become the very vehicle through which religious intolerance is allowed to flourish, it negates the very premise upon which it was founded, in turn promoting exclusivity, which can in turn lead to intolerance.

That said, our flag is now unfurled, and rightfully so, as we remain confident that if we hold fast to the standard which has been raised, we will have shown ourselves worthy to be called the followers of Christ. Yet make no mistake, the battle ahead is only just beginning, and while many sleep, those with eyes wide-open will in turn rise in response to the call.

Although this blog can be seen as a public chaplaincy by many, its primary focus remains that of our men and women in uniform, the cause they stand for, as well as the hope of freedom everywhere. It follows then that this blog would attempt to address the deeper and often divisive issues concerning the warriors calling. And it is for their sake that I can say I’m doubly concerned, not only about our current state of affairs, but the future challenges we face as a nation. In light of our auspicious beginning then, we might do well to consider our angelic tutelary, Columbia, who even now stands watch over our eastern gate. Holding high the Torch of Freedom in her right hand, in welcome to all those seeking refuge, and in her left, The Constitution, in warning to anyone whose selfish ambitions might tend toward “the pragmatic application of mechanisms and strategies designed to keep a group in power, regardless of their ideals, morals, or even their ultimate purpose.” (Lavenda, 2009).

“Walk Softly, but Carry a Big Stick!”

While the Coupstick Chaplain is emblematic of my Indigenous ancestry and pastoral orientation, the Plains Indian tradition of “Counting Coup” or “touching the enemy” as it was then known, speaks volumes about warfare being essentially spiritual in nature. In turn, it may be of some interest to note that while the coupstick itself is similar in appearance to the traditional Indian lacrosse stick as used in “The Creators Game,” it also resembles the Shepard’s crook, a Christian symbol of supernatural authority and spiritual guidance. Yet I would offer that the Kiowa coupstick is unique in one important particular, it retains the traditional lance-head firmly attached to its business end. And while the coupstick may speak of justice and the resolve required to maintain peace through strength, the very act of “counting coup” connotes to mercy – a life given, not taken. Although a concept not unfamiliar to the Christian praxis itself, many need to be reminded of the fact. This is especially true for those who profess a belief in God, yet fail to follow in the footsteps of Jesus. For the recalcitrant then, the Plains Indian tradition of Counting Coop is particularly apropos, as they often need some sense knocked into their heads. The fact remains that the spiritual warrior must needs be preparing the ground for the advent to come. A fact no more open to conjecture than the condemnation of those reclining on the couch of mercy, while letting others do all the work. And while it remains a matter of choice whether one chooses to be present and engaged in“restoring the world” (Tikkum olan), or not, it also speaks volumes about their spiritual authenticity and ultimate destination.

A Refuge in Time of Trouble?

Although the Americas have long been referred to as Turtle Island or a place of refuge, they may soon become a crossroads of conflict “… a spiritual conflict over material matters” (Waters, 1963). For that reason, the historical image of the American Indian perhaps best represents the ongoing struggle between spirituality and materialism, the natural world and corporate greed. Who better to articulate that cause then than those who’ve been on the receiving end for over five-hundred years. More importantly, the fact that Native Americans have somehow managed to remain an intrinsically spiritual people lends credence to my assertion that they will one day rise again. Not simply as separate peoples planning their own independent course of action, but as “one holy nation under God, walking in a sacred way,” taking the lead in resisting an agenda which seeks to subordinate all of creation to a system of godlessness, moral depravity and abject servitude.

In spite of those who may beg to differ, it would come as no surprise if Creator were to take an altogether different tack. Raising up a people that many would consider least in The Kingdom of Heaven, while at the same time placing them at the forefront of a “last days” revival. Considering the possibility, particularly when viewed through the lens of Native American history, it would leave little to the imagination. As Sitting Bull said: “He created us all according to his own purposes and called it good. Therefore, it is not right for us as eagles, to now become crows.”

In fact, while Native Americans have been characterized as second-class citizens and even squatters on their ancestral lands, they’ve somehow managed to retain their dignity and relationship with Creator. Their resilience then has not gone unnoticed, especially among those now poised to suffer a similar fate. As there are now many within the so-called herd that are neither buffaloed nor cowed; who have come to see resistance as the only possible alternative to a future prospect of beef rations and filthy blankets. For them, “going off the Rez.” has taken on new meaning, as reflecting upon their own vulnerability they’ve come to realize what Indian’s have known all along – we’re in a fight for our lives against a supernatural enemy. An enemy who not only seeks dominion over the entire world, but the spirits of the living. Even as Russell Means said – “We’re all Indians now!”

The Blog

Drawing from my various interests, including history, geopolitics, religion and war, political theology then becomes a viable platform for addressing the increasing dissonance that exists between self-interest and self-sacrifice. And while it’s understandable that politics necessarily remain separate from religion, it is the moral and ethical component of religious theology that provides the objectivity so often lacking in political discourse. And by viewing that discourse from an Indigenous perspective an independent and alternative vision can be offered. One which builds upon a biblical hermeneutics uniquely adapted to the Americas, which in turn serves to address the dystopian future we now see emerging.

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