A reflection by Caterina Mako DMin BCC and Fr. John Bucchino OFM DMin BCC CE-ACPE

The year 2025 marks the 60th anniversary of the National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC). For long-time members like Caterina Mako, who has belonged to the organization for over 25 years, it’s hard to believe the association is “only” 60 years old, because for her, it has always been present, feeling almost timeless. When something is consistently present and supportive, it can be easy to take for granted.

The realization that the 60th anniversary is designated as the Diamond Anniversary sparked a meaningful reflection. Caterina has always loved diamonds, and linking that symbol with the NACC led to a deeper consideration. As her husband once said, a diamond is essentially just a piece of carbon, the most common element in the world. And yet, it is an ordinary cluster of carbon atoms that, under the weight of the world, immense pressure, and extreme heat, transforms into a structure where each atom bonds with four others. This creates a three-dimensional, infinite network that is incredibly strong and beautiful.

This serves as a powerful metaphor for the NACC. The organization began with ordinary people who shared a common vision: to support those who were ill, lonely, frightened, grieving, or suffering in unimaginable ways. These early members came together with a noble purpose. Then came the pressure and the heat, pressure from the Church hierarchy, which sought to maintain structure and the value of faith, and heat from the growing recognition in the medical community that effective pastoral care could significantly benefit patient outcomes. Chaplains were increasingly called upon to demonstrate their impact.

Forward-thinking NACC members responded to this call. In the spirit of Pope John XXIII’s invitation to “throw open the doors and windows,” they welcomed chaplains who brought fresh clinical perspectives to pastoral care. New bonds were formed. The organization expanded. With each wave of pressure and heat, the NACC grew stronger and more resilient.

Diamonds, however, do not emerge from the earth sparkling and refined. Often, they are pushed to the surface by volcanic eruptions, and they must be diligently sought and carefully mined. Similarly, NACC has undergone its own "eruptions" such as the restructuring of regions, which have significantly shaped the organization’s current identity. Today, the NACC stands at a pivotal moment of reinvention and growth, embracing its gift for seeing possibilities that others might miss. This spirit of innovation continues to drive transformation, shaping the future of spiritual care in bold and visionary ways.

Just like a diamond requires precision cutting and fine polishing to focus light within it, the facets of the NACC continue to be refined. Each member serves as a unique facet, helping to direct the light of Christ toward the heart of the organization.

A diamond, then, is a perfect symbol for this moment in NACC’s history. Formed under tremendous pressure and heat, much like the NACC itself, diamonds are associated with commitment and endurance. According to geologists, their strength lies in their bonds, making them nearly indestructible, the hardest known material on Earth.

The bond within NACC is held together by the Holy Spirit, rendering it similarly unbreakable. Each member plays a role in shaping and polishing the diamond, so that together, they can focus and magnify the light of Christ within the organization.

Indeed, the NACC, like a humble piece of carbon transformed by pressure and heat, has become a brilliant and enduring beacon, an extraordinary organization that channels and magnifies the light of Christ, becoming true workers of hope.