A chaplain is typically a pastor, priest, or other member of the clergy who serves a group of people who are unable to attend religious services for various reasons. In many cases, these chaplains often join the military to help the enlisted practice their faith while serving their country. Often shipped out with the military for combat overseas or deployed at local bases, these chaplains lead interesting lives.

No longer something to read about in interest pieces in the paper, chaplains also take advantage of the ever-growing blogosphere to discuss their work, daily life, and much more. For the best of the blogs, we have collected the top 25 chaplain bloggers, including their wife bloggers, and a few specialty choices.

Top Male Chaplain Bloggers

These chaplains serve both God and country and write all about it in their blogs.

1. Army Chaplain’s Blog : The Reverend Antony Feltham White has been ordained a priest since 2001 and an Army Chaplain since 2005. Born in Somerset, he is also married and has three children. Part of the Royal Army Chaplains Department, he has been deployed to Germany and Afghanistan. Read top posts such as “army chaplains”and “more than just the regular army.”

2. Army Chaplaincy : This blog provides news and information about the ministry of chaplains in the United States Army, Army Reserve, and Army National Guard. The goals are to inform readers about chaplains, share knowledge and experiences, assist in recruiting, and support the religious freedoms of soldiers. Categories on the blog include news, ethics, and even a special section on what chaplains do.

3. Chaplain Andrews : Chaplain Keith J. Andrews assumed his current duties as the 266th Quartermaster Battalion Chaplain, Fort Lee, Virginia in December 2009. In 2004, he was endorsed as a Chaplain by the Southern Baptist Convention and appointed as an U.S. Army Chaplain. He is also married and has four children. In addition to his blog, he also has presentations he has done available with a click.

4. Covenant & Code : Mark has been blessed with the opportunity to support the troops in Afghanistan in their faith while deployed with the 110th Chaplain Detachment. Over the next 400 days, he plans to use the blog to document what he is doing. Follow along as he visits new countries, learn new languages and customs, and conducts his duties.

5. Life’s Narrow Path : Michael entered the Army as a Chaplain in June of 2008 and was deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2009. Now back at Fort Hood, he and his wife are searching for a house. Read about current life or entries dating all the way back to 2007.

6. Chaplain Darren : He has traveled to Afghanistan and back. Along with Mama of Many, they blog on what life has been like both overseas and home. Many moving pictures are also included.

7. Chaplain Dave : He is a 31 year old Christian, husband, father, and army chaplain. His fourth child, Joy, was just born and he writes about her as only a father could. Dave has also begun Clinical Pastoral Education classes and tells more.

8. Chaplain Jim : Jim Mitchem is a brand new army chaplain. He was selected for active duty and reported to Army Chaplain School (CHBOLC) on Jan 10, 2010 after serving as an enlisted soldier. A while can go in between blog posts but they are worth a look for optimism and an inside look.

9. Training for Eternity : Chaplain Brad Lewis began this blog in 2003 before leaving for a mission in Korea. What started out as a blog to chronicle his experiences there became a six year journey for both he and his readers. Read the entire adventure via blog by visiting.

Top Female Chaplain Bloggers

The chaplain’s wives also blog about life in the military.

10. Military Chaplain’s Wife : Laura’s best friend and husband is a chaplain in the army. With four children, one of which is also in the military, she mirrors the experiences of many true army wives and mothers. The blog is her journal of experiences of life, love, and family. They recently finished a family vacation and she posts loads of pictures.

11. Breakthrough : Nicole is a military mother who travels with her family. Recently stationed in Korea, her blog is full of details about her new life. There are also many useful links for military wives.

12. Small Steps of Faith : This blogger is the wife of Chaplain Dave. She is also mother of four and just had a baby. Blog life tells all about family life and her husband’s CPE course.

13. Army Chaplain’s Wife : Lauren and her chaplain husband reside near Fort Carson. They are both expecting a baby and write all about it in the blog. It also includes prayer, wishes, and daily life.

14. Army Wife Network : Whether you are a wife in the military or have a husband who is serving, this network is for all army wives. Click on Blogs to begin reading. You can also get podcasts, webinars, and much more. Be sure not to miss the Message Boards with loads of support.

15. Wives of Faith : If you are the wife of a chaplain or have a family member in the military, this site is for you. You can visit to read the blogs of other wives who connect, support, and encourage the military. Visitors can also start their own or get information on local groups and programs. There is even an online book club.

Top Specialty Chaplain Bloggers

These blogs cover a unique area of the chaplain.

16. Curmudgeon: An Unlikely Army Chaplain : Think you’re too old to join the army? So did this blogger, but he did it anyway in his 50’s. He is also a Catholic priest, molecular neurobiologist, scuba diver, and more. Father Tim has since returned to civilian life but blogs about both his experiences as a chaplain and a citizen.

17. Chaplaincy Matters : Tim Barrett is the Chaplain at Northern Beaches Christian School and associate of the Sydney Centre for Innovation in Learning. He is also passionate about connecting students with God and teaching effectively using technology. Get everything from tech tips to benedictions on one blog.

18. Adventures of a New Army Chaplain : Steve Bareis is from Du Quoin, Illinois. Follow his blog as he enters and graduates chaplain school. Although he finished over a year ago, his blog is still full of what chaplains experience during their education.

19. Editor’s Blog : This blog is sponsored by the site MilSpouse.com. Its goal is to support the married couples who are serving in the military in any capacity. The blog contains the latest news items relating to military families. You can also visit the main site to get tips on relationships, deployment, family, money, and much more.

20. Military Ministry : Visit here for the site of an organization that helps military members become chaplains. It also helps churches welcome back returning soldiers, veterans, and families. Be sure to check out the Standard Bearer for more resources.

21. Right Side Up : Chris Melvin is currently finishing studies at Phoenix Seminary. He has also pastored for a handful of years and is currently a National Guard Chaplain with the 1/158th INF BN. His blog is a place to collect thoughts on the “way things ought to be.” Daily life and political musings are often the topic of blog posts.

22. The Reformed Chaplain : John Craven invites you to follow him for 365 days as “unplugged, casual, and with no spell check.” He was first stationed in Germany before begin deployed to Fort Hood. He is currently on day 88 and has just begun his adventures.

23. Chaplain Candidate Jeff : Follow the story of a chaplain candidate in this blog. Jeff is married with three children and has reported to Fort Jackson for CHBOLC. He recently shared a video of a drill and ceremony competition he participated in.

24. Excellent or Praiseworthy : This blog is a devotional to help military families stay connected during deployment. The 40 Days of Deployment Dare is a popular choice and has tips for what to do each day. Al and Linda also give meaningful tips for what to do in between.

25. Christ and Combat Boots : TC Houston is an army chaplain and first lieutenant serving in the Army National Guard. He recently completed a full-time tour at Fort Carson and is currently serving with the Honor Guard while preparing for deployment. His latest entry was on a summary of army chaplaincy and is a good read for what to expect during time as a chaplain.

Whether a member of the military, have a family member who is, or are an ordained chaplain yourself, there are loads of stories for inspiration, faith, humor, and much more on the above top 25 chaplain blogs.

One of the most misunderstood minority religions in the world today, Wicca involves a wide variety of different beliefs and practices. Contrary to popular assumption, Wicca and Witchcraft are not always the same thing; though many practitioners of the former do refer to themselves as “Witches” rather than “Wiccans.” Its adherents stand just as eclectic as the more popular faiths, and many unfamiliar with the components of Wicca and Witchcraft will be startled to note the similarities they share with one another. This listing, in no particular order, did give preference to listing blogs that explicitly address Wiccan concerns – even if they exist as general neo-Pagan resources – and appeared to update on a regular basis with few large chunks of inactivity. However, some more generalized Witchcraft blogs were added to bring about a bit of diversity as well.

1.) Rose Ariadne’s Witchcraft Blog

This extremely comprehensive blog boasts archives dating all the way back to 2006, providing information on everything from spells to addressing common misconceptions about the religion.

2.) from Jupiter

Paganism, politics, sociology and city life converge into one well-written, intelligent resource on the role of Wicca in today’s world.

3.) Confessions of a Pagan Soccer Mom

Wiccans hoping to raise a family within the tenets of the religion will adore this fun, whip-smart blog on domestic Paganism.

4.) 2 Witches Blog

Mama Kelly and Lady Rose share their thoughts and experiences about a wide variety of neo-Pagan topics – including Wicca! – with considerable warmth and humor.

5.) The Archdruid Report

Although Wicca and Druidism are not the same thing, this illuminating blog by Grand Archdruid of the Ancient Order of Druids in America John Michael Greer frequently discusses nature-based philosophies and spells and issues regarding neo-Paganism that Wiccans may find fascinating and helpful.

6.) The Wild Hunt

Jason Pitzl-Waters provides neo-Pagans a great forum to debate all the issues relating to their practices, discussing philosophies, events and issues relevant to the community.

7.) cybercoven.org

Read cybercoven.org for great spiritual insight on how magick helps one woman live a more comfortable, stable existence.

8.) Witch School International

Witches from all backgrounds converge at this handy resource, which peers into different perspectives to broaden minds and establish similarities between different neo-Pagan traditions.

9.) The Witch of Forest Grove

Explore Celtic and Norse traditions that may enhance Wiccan practices as well as advice on different spells and useful botanicals.

10.) Within the Sacred Mists

The official blog of The College of the Sacred Mists supplements its lessons on Wicca with a general interest resource covering all the practical and spiritual basics.

11.) David Rankine

“Author, Magician and Esoteric Researcher” David Rankine plunges the depths of grimores and other works of occult literature and shares with the neo-Pagan community – including many of particular interest to Wiccans!

12.) A Pagan’s Blog

Political Scientist Gus diZerega blogs about policy and religion alike, with special attention paid to the specific needs of neo-Pagans. Wicca frequently factors into many of his postings.

13.) Z Budapest Blog

Popular neo-Pagan writer and founder of Dianic University Online Zsuzsanna Budapest uses her personal blog as a conduit for discussing intersections between feminism and Wiccan spirituality – among other issues!

14.) Quaker Pagan Reflections

Cat Chapin- and Peter Bishop open up about their particular brand of religious pluralism – merging Pagan (including Wicca) spirituality with Quaker traditions. It may seem unorthodox at first, but certainly stands as a great example of people setting aside their differences and participating in an open community.

15.) Letter from Hardscrabble Creek

Drop in on Letters from Hardscrabble Creek for musings on Pagan culture, politics and practices that frequently embrace the needs and interests of Wiccans.

16.) PAGAN+politics

9 contributors from vastly different political and Pagan backgrounds weigh in on the latest issues and events through their own unique lenses, looking at how they impact their respective religious communities.

17.) Pagan Dad

Wiccan fathers hoping to find ways to lead their children down the Pagan path would do well to explore this resource, which offers fantastic advice on a wide variety of different traditions.

18.) Medusa Coils

Read about Goddess worship, feminism and neo-Pagan spirituality on this bold, provocative blog.

19.) Broomstick Chronicles

Follow along with all the latest events, issues, philosophies and advice from within the Witchcraft community with this broad, engaging blog.

20.) American Witch

Poet Annie Finch shares and reflects upon her poetry and the facets of Witchcraft that inspire it.

21.) A Heathen’s Day

A Heathen’s Day dissects the current social and political climate, analyzing how they impact the neo-Pagan denominations.

22.) A Pagan Tapestry

Anyone seeking spells, perspectives and advice from the Celtic tradition would likely enjoy the content offered by A Pagan Tapestry.

23.) moonroot

Many Witches and Wiccans embrace environmental, sustainable political causes, and moonroot dishes out valuable advice on spells, meditations and other ways for the community to protect the planet.

24.) Patti’s Paganism/Wicca Blog

About.com’s portal to Wicca and Paganism focuses on general spiritual, political and social issues relating to the affiliated belief systems.

25.) The Witching Hour Approaches Blog

This general Witchcraft blog covers everything that practitioners of all levels need to know about the religion.

26.) The Walk of the Fallen

The frequently heartwrenching blog The Walk of the Fallen peers into how one veteran and her husband (also a veteran) use their Cretan labyrinth to pray for their sons (both soldiers) and others serving in the American armed forces.

27.) Wiccan Together

Wiccan Together hosts both a communal blog as well as forums and other ways for practitioners to network and exchange ideas and insight on a number of different topics.

28.) Hecate

Stop by Hecate for feminist and environmental issues as seen from one Witch’s point of view.

29.) Magic in These Hills

An intensely personal blog by Livia Indica, Magic in These Hills reflects how Witchcraft has helped her live a more comfortable, peaceful life.

30.) SpellWorks

Practitioners or Solo or Eclectic Wicca may want to explore the detailed and informative SpellWorks as a great primer on what to do and how to do it.

31.) Magick, Wicca, Witchcraft And The Book Of Shadows Blog

Author Gregory Branson-Trent keeps this blog in order to share his findings on various spells, spell components and neo-Pagan practices that Wiccans and Witches may find interesting.

32.) Paganism/Wicca

Suite101 writer Joanne E. Brannan hosts a number of contributors exploring issues and practices within Wicca and related neo-Pagan traditions.

33.) Book of Shadows – Wicca Education and Research

A Wiccan flying solo wants to share all her experiences and findings within the religion, blogging about how it interacts with other belief systems and the sciences.

34.) Practically Magic

Spells, meditations and other components of Wicca do not have to focus on the grandiose. Sometimes they can impact tiny facets of existence, sending out giant waves of change from one small gesture.

35.) Spyrit Dancers’ Musings On All Things Wiccan

One Solo Wiccan muses on the tradition’s role in her life, providing a primer on various components for beginners or more advanced practitioners looking for a little refresher.

36.) Personal Visions

Paganism comes in a wide variety of “flavors” – including Wicca! – and this blog emphasizes the commonalities and differences between them.

37.) Thoughts From a Threshold

Thoughts From a Threshold peers into the practices, sociology and politics of contemporary Paganism, not discriminating based on denomination.

38.) Gavin and Yvonne the Dancing Wiccans

2 elderly Wiccans keep a blog on Numerology and general topics regarding their chosen religion and culture.

39.) Pagan Bookworm

Stay up-to-date with the latest books on Paganism, Witchcraft, Wicca, the esoteric and the occult with this intelligent, informative resource.

40.) Talking About Ritual Magick

Frater Barrabbas Tiresius does not blog exclusively about Wicca, but he does discuss numerous general ruminations and instructions on different magick practices they may find of particular interest.

41.) ~Witchy Mama~ Pagan Parenting

Aimed a Pagan moms and dads, this blog provides recipes, spells, parenting tips and more.

42.) Diary of a Natural Witch

Wiccans who feel a particular affinity with nature have plenty to love and appreciate with this creative, feminist blog.

43.) Domestic Witch

The tenets of Witchcraft and Wicca (and Paganism as a whole) have myriad applications in day-to-day domestic life.

44.) One Witch’s Way

As the title implies, Rowan Pendragon’s blog opens readers up to her own interpretation of Pagan spirituality and practice, which frequently involves discussions regarding Wicca.

45.) A College Witch’s Experiences

Witches attending college in the present or hoping to do so in the future will enjoy reading up on how to use positive spells to improve their experiences and the experiences of others as well.

46.) The Domestic Witch

Another Witchcraft and Wicca blog dedicated to using the religions’ practices for the betterment of a home.

47.) Wicca Everyday

It may not update as frequently as the other blogs on this list, but the Wicca Everyday podcast deserve a listen for its neat insight into practicing Paganism.

48.) Bringing Up Salamanders

Bringing Up Salamanders, as of this writing, is currently on hiatus. However, visitors can still look for some great information on raising a family with Wiccan values all the same.

49.) Witchin’ in the Kitchen

This incredibly fun, informative blog reaches out to Wiccans and Witches who love to cook and spread food and hospitality alongside their magicks.

50.) The Simple Witch

Drop by The Simple Witch for insightful news, views and information on Wicca and other facets of Witchcraft and neo-Paganism.

Wiccan spirituality embraces diversity and free will, and those who choose to follow that particular path frequently find themselves facing down discrimination and misunderstanding. Neither them, nor the vast majority of their neo-Pagan contemporaries, align themselves with the Christian concept of Satan. Hopefully, reading through this eclectic selection of perspectives and practices will shed light on how these belief systems perceive and seek to alter the world around them.

Cheerleading has gone from an American pastime to a cutting edge sport that requires as much athleticism and competitive fierceness as football or basketball. Even in middle school, girls are trying their best to become cheerleaders for the age-old allure of wearing the uniform and being among the popular crowd.

Of course it isn’t all fun and games, as these blogs on cheerleading point out. For aspiring cheerleaders, health and mental preparation are crucial to becoming part of the squad.

Top Cheerleading Blogs

Need to learn the ropes of cheerleading before making the squad? Get in gear with these cheerleading blogs that can help you prep for practices and routines.

1. Confident Cheerleading What is the first thing you need to succeed as a cheerleader? Confidence, of course! This blog shows you how to put your best foot forward at tryouts.

2. Coaching Youth Cheerleading Though this blog hasn’t been updated in awhile, aspiring cheerleaders will benefit from reading a coach’s point of view on how to prepare for the squad.

3. GK Elite Cheer This is a great site for aspiring cheerleaders who want to explore the competitive side of the sport.

4. CheerZone Blog Apsiring cheerleaders will love this blog for its tips on everything from staying fit to working out new cheers.

5. Meg’s Cheerleader Blog This competitive cheerleader blogs about her experiences and serves as a great online resource for girls who want to explore the world of cheerleading.

6. Sultan Cheer This school keeps a blog for their cheer camp, giving aspiring cheerleaders a taste of what they’re getting into should they make the squad.

7. Sphyntrix Cheerleading The excitement of this competitive squad is contagious and will get you stoked about trying to make the team if you’re a newbie.

8. Cheerleading USA Everything from dance and routine tips to appearance tips to make sure you blend in with the team.

9. Cheerleading America This fantastic site is packed with everything you need to become a cheerleader. Do you need all of it? Of course not, but there’s nothing like the proper shoes to make your jumps higher.

10. Going Pro Entertainment This site was created by ex-pro cheerleaders who know what it takes to make the team.

11. Sideline Star Learn how to make the most of your practice sessions and work on your own to improve your chances of making the team.

12. The Science Cheerleader Think cheerleaders are one-dimensional? Think again. This blog proves you can be fit, gorgeous and brainy.

13. Cheer Extreme Read the experiences of cheerleaders and cheer coaches to learn what it takes to take your performance to the next level and make the squad.

14. Cheerleading Uniforms Blog This blog isn’t only about uniforms, but also posts cheer news from around the nation.

15. Cheer Technique Here you’ll learn how to improve you overall technique and form, making this a great resource for aspiring or veteran cheerleaders.

16. Cheer Wiz This is one of the most useful and easy-to-follow blogs we found on our journey and will work for seasoned or new cheerleaders.

17. We Play – Youth Cheerleading A great source with links to various websites and blogs that will help you get moving if you’re a young aspiring cheerleader.

18. Reshape the Nation If you want to get fit the right way, this blog is your go-to source to learn the proper diet and exercise that will get you prepped for major tryouts.

19. About Cheerleading This About blog covers everything cheerleading from tidbits in the news to strategies to improve your squad’s team spirit.

20. All-Star Cheerleading Blog This is where the best of the best compete when it comes to cheering. Learn what it takes to make the stellar squad and become part of history in cheerleading.

21. University of Hawaii Cheer Blog Cheerleading isn’t all glamour. This blog proves it’s a lot of hard work and determination that goes into making a squad go from good to great.

22. Inside Cheerleading See what it’s like for competitive cheerleaders across the nation and decide if cheerleading is the right sport for you.

23. Sideline Prep Get a peek at what professional cheerleaders do and let it inspire you to cheer like a pro at your next tryout.

24. Cheer Music Solutions If you have to come up with your own routine and want music that’s already professionally cut and edited, check out this site for options.

25. Ultimate Cheerleaders Get inspiration from pro cheerleaders and learn what they do to get over jitters before taking to the field or court for performances.

26. World Cheerleading Association Read about the big events competitive cheerleaders participate in .

27. Spirit Safety Learn the ins-and-outs of cheerleader safety so you don’t get hurt on the field or the gym.

28. American Cheerleader One of the best-selling magazines on cheerleading is now on the web and providing cheerleading tips for youth to college-aged cheerleaders.

29. Varsity Camps are held throughout the country by this company, so if you’re looking for a fun way to spend a week or serious about cheering, you may want to check out the schedule.

30. Pop Warner Cheer This well-known youth sports organization is now in the world of cheerleading and the site offers fantastic tips for the aspiring cheerleader.

Top Cheerleading Articles and Videos

Prepping for cheerleading tryouts also means looking the part. Learn how to with these articles and take notes for the helpful videos that will make you blend in seamlessly.

31. How to Do Cheerleading Jumps There’s nothing that makes a good cheerleader great like major jumps. Learn how to improve your jumps and gain height and flexibility.

32. Cheerleading 101 Learn the basics of the sport with this article that explains what you need to know before trying out.

33. Cheerleading – A Sport and an Industry This USA Today article explains how cheerleading is a growing sport that’s making major money.

34. Common Floor Cheers Whether you’re sitting or standing, this site has plenty of floor cheers that will lift the crowd’s team spirit.

35. Conditioning Exercises for Cheer Learn how to stay in tip-top shape to make your body ready for cheering and performing stunts.

36. Spotter Workout 0001 A spotter is an integral position to play on a cheerleading squad. Check out these workouts to improve your strength and make sure you’re always on guard.

37. Guide to Cheerleader Tumbling If you need a 101 on how to tumble, you can find all of the info you need here to make you flip.

38. Highschool Cheerleading Tips If you’re trying out for your highschool’s cheerleading squad, check out this article for major tips on how to make yourself stand out while being a great team member.

39. How to Get a Cheerleader in the Air The tuck arch basket is a basic stunt that all cheerleaders should know whether they’re going in the air or serving as a base.

40. From Megaphones to Mega-Profits Cheerleading is booming, especially in the competitive realm. Learn how the industry is making the most of its moment.

41. Body Image This video discusses body image in cheerleading. It’s important to be healthy using the proper techniques like eating plenty of lean meats and veggies and getting regular exercise.

42. Ways to Jump Higher Improving your jumps is one of the best ways to up your chances of making the squad since they can be a good portion of your tryouts and are usually included in your tryout routine.

43. A History of Cheerleading Cheerleading originated with men cheering and women were later added in the ‘20s. Learn more about the history of the sport with this article.

44. Schools Limit Risks Routinely Read how schools are reducing the risks that cheerleaders take when participating in stunts on campus.

45. 5 Things You Need to Know About Cheerleading Training Once you’re on the squad, there are several methods for training. Learn what you’re getting into and how to get in shape for cheer practices.

46. Best Cheerleading Cheers Need a cheer that is a staple? Find it here and add your own moves for a custom routine.

47. Pain, Sacrifice Taught Valuable Life Lessons Like any other sport, cheerleading teaches life lessons that you can utilize in many situations later down the line.

48. Common Cheerleading Injuries If you make the team, you’ll need to know how to reduce injuries. Learn how to make the most of stretching and building muscle so you stay fit.

49. National High School Cheerleading Rules Learn the rules for high school cheerleading so you know the ins-and-outs before you hit the court to perform.

50. Sport Vs. Activity? It’s a Tossup Who is calling cheerleading a sport? Well, just about everyone. Learn what it has taken to take this activity from a mere hobby to a full-on competitive sport.

The Internet has served as an amazing platform for raising ocean acidification awareness. Scientists and environmentalists are able to reach out to the public and work towards a better future for the planet.