Cadence International serves a vital role in supporting military families, both in the United States and abroad. Founded nearly three decades ago, the organization has expanded its outreach to include foreign military communities. The central mission is straightforward: to offer fellowship, support, and spiritual guidance to service members and their families. Meredith Snell and her husband, retired Colonel Matt Snell, exemplify this mission through their work at the Cadence House at Fort Drum. They open their home to military personnel, creating a welcoming space that fosters connection.
Meredith explains the core of their work, saying, “We just look for people to have into our home, sit around our table.” This intimate approach doesn’t just bridge the gap between strangers; it also cultivates a deeper understanding of shared experiences and struggles faced by military families. The gatherings often include shared meals, Bible studies, and open discussions, all aimed at easing the burdens of military life.
Cadence Houses provide essential support, addressing unique stresses that come with military service. The mission statement emphasizes their commitment to be present for military individuals and families during significant life changes. The Snells view the Army as their mission field, where they learn to navigate faith amid the trials of military life. Meredith emphasizes that their challenges, such as deployments and long separations, ultimately help them grow together spiritually.
Paul Bradley, another leader at Cadence, exemplifies the organization’s efforts in challenging environments. His experiences preaching to Free Burma Rangers point to the importance of support in conflict zones. Through his outreach, he reminds soldiers of God’s unconditional love and their need for forgiveness. “God’s capacity to forgive is infinite,” he tells these soldiers, many of whom grapple with the moral weight of their actions in combat.
As modern conflicts shift, so too do the challenges soldiers face. Colonel Snell notes a troubling shift in issues affecting service members today. “It’s more loneliness, depression, pornography. These are more the issues of the day.” Cadence’s focus has adapted to address these growing concerns, shining a light on the mental health struggles faced by soldiers returning home.
The approach to healing at Cadence goes beyond traditional counseling. Colonel Snell talks about the importance of developing personal relationships, stating, “It’s doing life-on-life, inviting them to go for a run or go fishing.” This philosophy reflects a deep understanding of the importance of camaraderie, especially in the military. Having someone to share those burdens can make a significant difference in a soldier’s mental well-being.
Paul Bradley’s insights on trauma stress reinforce this message. He prefers to describe trauma as an injury due to unprocessed stress. “Trauma is more an injury due to stress that’s not processed or excessive stress that overwhelms our ability to cope with it,” he explains. This perspective emphasizes the necessity of processing experiences in a supportive environment. Soldiers often shy away from discussing their struggles, yet they share a bond from facing adversity together in combat.
The commitment of Cadence personnel is evident in their interactions, whether in a Chaplain’s prayer in Ukraine or a devotional in the mountains of Burma. Each moment builds upon the understanding that sharing these burdens can yield strength in vulnerability. Soldiers often find comfort in talking through their experiences, particularly when they realize they are not alone in facing their challenges.
The discussion around coping mechanisms is crucial. As Bradley notes, soldiers frequently turn to destructive behaviors when they feel isolated or overwhelmed. “If they start isolating from you, you need to lean in and pursue them,” he advises, emphasizing the necessity of intervention. The culture of “motor through it” can create barriers to seeking the help they need.
By encouraging open conversations and mutual support, Cadence lays the groundwork for healing. The principles shared by Colonel Snell, Meredith, Brian, and Paul provide hope to soldiers and families navigating the complexities of military life. Their mission embodies a profound belief in the strength of community and faith to overcome adversity.
The work of Cadence International stands as a beacon for those who serve. The organization’s focus on hospitality, understanding, and spiritual guidance plays a crucial role in fostering a sense of belonging among military families. Each story shared, every prayer offered, and every meal enjoyed around the table reinforces the essence of community among those who have dedicated their lives to service.
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