Faith in Uniform and Verse: Honoring Chaplain (MAJ) Raymond J. Guidry

Published February 23, 2026 at 8:40 AM EDT

Father Raymond J. Guidry (1928-2011) served as priest on four continents.

TECHNY, IL — Black History Month is a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of African Americans who have shaped the course of history. Among the many trailblazers is U.S. Army Chaplain (MAJ) Raymond J. Guidry, a man whose life was a testament to faith, resilience, and creativity. As an African American priest, missionary, military chaplain, and poet, Chaplain Guidry’s legacy should inspire generations of chaplains serving in the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps.

A Life of Service Across Continents: Born on July 30, 1928, in Abbeville, Louisiana, Raymond J. Guidry was the fourth of seven children in his family. At the age of 21, he professed religious vows with the Society of the Divine Word (SVD) at Techny, Illinois, and was ordained to the priesthood in 1957 in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. His journey of service began in Ghana, West Africa, where he was one of eight African-American Divine Word Missionaries working in the Diocese of Accra for nearly a decade.

Chaplain (CPT) Raymond J. Guidry; United States Army Chaplain from 1968-1988. Photo courtesy of the Society of the Divine Word, Chicago Province.

In 1968, Father Guidry answered another call to serve—this time as a chaplain in the U.S. Army. After graduating from the Army Chaplain School at Fort Hamilton, New York, he embarked on a 20-year military career that took him to Vietnam, West Germany, and various locations across the United States. His ministry provided spiritual guidance, moral support, and comfort to soldiers and their families during some of the most challenging times, including the Vietnam War.

Faith in the Face of Adversity: As an African American chaplain during a time of racial tension in the United States, Chaplain Guidry’s presence was a beacon of hope and resilience. He ministered to soldiers in combat zones, hospital wards, and command posts, offering solace and strength in moments of fear and uncertainty. His ability to connect with people from diverse backgrounds and his unwavering commitment to his faith made him a respected figure among his peers

Chaplain (CPT) Guidry serving on a one-year tour in Vietnam right after graduating from the Army Chaplain School in Fort Hamilton, N.Y. in 1968. Photo courtesy of the Divine Word, Chicago Province.

In a letter written during his time in Vietnam, Chaplain Guidry shared the challenges of serving in a war zone. He described the trials of living through mortar attacks and the emotional toll of conducting memorial services for fallen Soldiers. Despite these hardships, he remained steadfast in his mission, even using funds from Catholic Sunday collections to support local priests, sisters, and orphanages in Vietnam.

Father Guidry’s ministry extended beyond the pulpit and battlefield. He was also a gifted poet and storyteller, using his writings to explore themes of identity, racial injustice, faith, and resilience. His poetry, published in respected African American literary outlets such as Negro Digest, offered a powerful voice to the lived experiences of Black Americans. His words resonated deeply, providing spiritual and cultural affirmation during a time when African American voices were often marginalized. Ray Guidry had the soul of a poet and the heart of a missionary.

Chaplain Father (MAJ) Guidry had the soul of a poet and the heart of a missionary. He frequently contributed to Negro Digest. Photo courtesy of the Society of the Divine Word, Chicago Province

One of his poems, James Meredith, captures the essence of his perspective: A reflection of Father Raymond Guidry after the 1966 failed assassination on civil rights activist James Meredith published in Negro Digest.

A Legacy of Faith and Leadership: Chaplain Father Guidry’s life was a testament to the power of faith and service. He was described by Rev. James Pawlicki, SVD, as having “the soul of a poet and the heart of a missionary.” Bishop J. Terry Steib called him “a legend, hero, and role model.” These words reflect the profound impact Father Guidry had on those he served and the communities he touched.

During his retirement, Major General Norris L. Einertson, U.S. Army Chief of Chaplains, commended Chaplain (MAJ) Guidry for his dedication, stating, “Through your sacred ministry, you have enhanced the quality of life and facilitated the spiritual growth of innumerable Service Members and their Families.”

Remembering Father Guidry During Black History Month: Chaplain Father (MAJ) Raymond J. Guidry’s life and legacy remind us of the vital role African American chaplains have played in the U.S. Army Chaplain Corps. His service, poetry, and unwavering faith continue to inspire and challenge us to live lives of purpose and resilience.

As we honor Black History Month, let us remember Chaplain Father Guidry not only for his military service but also for his contributions to the spiritual and cultural fabric of America. His words and actions remind us that faith, service, and creativity are powerful tools for change and healing.