Pastor Joseph Murdy, a chaplain in the U.S. Army Reserve, on deployment in Kuwait in 2025.
"As a chaplain, it is my greatest privilege to support these soldiers, accompany them through life's challenges and be a source of faith, encouragement and hope. To all those who have served and continue to serve, you have my sincere thanks and appreciation."
Pastor Joseph Murdy
Point Park University will honor veterans at a ceremony held in the Residential Dining Hall at noon on Wednesday, Nov. 11. Rev. Joseph Murdy, Point Park University's campus spiritual coordinator, will speak at the service. Murdy is a chaplain in the United States Army Reserve and was deployed last year for 11 months.
Murdy is the associate pastor of First English Lutheran Church on Grant Street, which has a long history of supporting Point Park students in a variety of ways. Murdy, who goes by Pastor Joe or PJ at church and by "Chap" in the military, is a native of Pittsburgh, a graduate of Thiel College and Lutheran Theological Seminary at Gettysburg (now United Lutheran Seminary). In his chaplaincy, he works in a pluralistic environment that cares for people of all faiths, traditions and expressions.
What does the coordinator of spiritual life at Point Park do?
The coordinator of spiritual life helps to oversee and facilitate spiritual care across campus for students and staff. This includes coordinating and communicating with other ministry groups that provide resources for students. Working with student life to address concerns and provide spiritual opportunities across the Point Park community.
Describe your past and current role in the military.
When it comes to military service, I still consider myself relatively new — five years in! I serve as a chaplain in the United States Army Reserve. As an officer, I advise commanders on matters of morality, morale and religion, serving as a subject matter expert on religious affairs. As a chaplain, I support soldiers in a pluralistic environment through pastoral care, counseling, advocacy and spiritual support. An important part of my responsibility is ensuring soldiers' religious liberties are protected and that they have opportunities to practice their faith while supporting the readiness, resilience and overall mission of the unit.
In February 2026, I returned from an 11-month deployment, serving primarily in Kuwait, with additional assignments in Saudi Arabia and Jordan.
Since 2022, I have served with the 328th Combat Operational Stress Control (COSC) unit based in Coraopolis, Pennsylvania. The COSC mission focuses on mental health and holistic well-being, which often includes spiritual care. As a chaplain, I provide confidential pastoral care, allowing soldiers a safe place to talk, process and seek support without fear of judgment. Being part of a mental health-focused unit allowed me to support that mission while also serving soldiers in a variety of other capacities.
This past September, I transitioned to a new assignment with the 316th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, still local in Coraopolis. The 316th oversees subordinate units, including transportation and sustainment brigades, regional support groups, and quartermaster groups throughout Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, New England and parts of the Mid-Atlantic.
What do you enjoy about being a military chaplain?
Being in the military has been a tremendous experience. Having the opportunity to walk alongside soldiers during some of their most vulnerable moments is truly sacred work. I joined the military because I wanted to offer ministry in a different setting, reaching people in places and circumstances that are often difficult to encounter within the walls of a church. Don't get me wrong — I love parish ministry! I joined the Army Reserve because I wanted the best of both worlds. I see my work as a chaplain as an extension of the ministry of my congregation. I love that I get to do what God has called me to do in two very different, yet deeply connected, settings.
As a chaplain, it is my greatest privilege to support these soldiers, accompany them through life's challenges, and be a source of faith, encouragement and hope. To all those who have served and continue to serve, you have my sincere thanks and appreciation.
How has your military experience impacted you?
My eyes have certainly been opened through the experiences of serving in the military. My responsibilities as a chaplain and my obligations as a soldier remain fairly consistent, but the administrative side of military life is always changing! Keeping up with the requirements, regulations and constant changes can certainly be stressful.
My perspective on the world, government and military service has also evolved. I wouldn't say my views have changed drastically, but serving overseas and experiencing life as a member of the military have given me a much deeper appreciation for the men and women who serve our country, protect our freedoms and defend our liberties. I have a greater understanding of the sacrifices that come with military service, particularly the challenge of leaving family and friends behind for extended periods of time.
What do you do as associate pastor at First Lutheran?
As associate pastor at First Lutheran Church, I work with another pastor and staff to oversee the ministry of our congregation. This includes our worship (Sundays at 8:30 and 11 a.m., and Wednesdays at 12:10 p.m.), education, administration and outreach to our community. As associate pastor, I specifically oversee education, youth ministry, social outreach — which includes campus ministry — and care for the vulnerable around the city.
How can students, staff and faculty find you?
My email is jgm@flcpittsburgh.org and my phone number is 412-471-8125, ext. 212. My office at First Lutheran Church on Grant Street is not far from campus. I plan to be present on campus a few days a week.
More Veterans Day Stories
Point Park University Veterans Share How Military Service Shaped Their Lives
Meet two students, a staff member and police officer who served, and learn about our services to student veterans.
Veterans Day Recognition Ceremony Honors Those Who Have Served
Leaders of Point Park University took time to honor the veterans in our community on Mon., Nov. 11, 2024 at a recognition service held in Village Park.
