A journey from theology to military chaplaincy

HAVING pursued his passion for religion and to serve others, Dr Mathias Yuvan Shunmugam is now hoping to make a difference as a military chaplain for the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). 

Shunmugam, 28, of Pretoria, said as a young boy he was intrigued by archeology, religion and human evolution. 

“At first I wanted to be a police officer. However, as I became more socially involved in different political and social movements, it led me to wanting to study religion. I found myself interested in being able to make an active contribution to society.  

“I was also involved in different sports and activities, and the military was something that intrigued and appealed to me. I liked the discipline, rigour, training and uniform; the overall idea of being a soldier. I also knew I would be able to make a meaningful contribution to society through religion and in the military.”

Shunmugam, formerly of Tongaat, said after completing matric, he pursued his bachelors and honours degrees in theology and religion at the University of Pretoria and graduated in 2019. 

In 2020, he graduated with his Master's degree in theology and religion, and thereafter with his PhD in science of religion in 2022.  Last year, he graduated with his BA honours degree in psychological counselling. 

“From the time I matriculated, I did not stop studying. While completing my degree in psychology, I worked as a post-doctoral researcher in the department of Practical Theology at Unisa, and was doing  presentations on spirituality and therapeutic intervention.

“In addition, because of my psychology degree, I engaged in many conferences and conversations, which led to meeting the SANDF chaplaincy. From there I waited for an opportunity to apply as I realised this was something I am interested in."

Shunmugam said while there were challenges along the way, he got through them as he had a strong support structure. 

“One of the lessons that I have learnt through the challenges I have experienced was that I don’t have to endure it on my own. During those times when I had major challenges, whether it was continuing with my studies or personal issues, I reached out to people. I have friends and family members, who were always there to support, help or guide me.”

Shunmugam added that his father, Krish Shunmugam, had been an inspiration over the years. 

“A large part of who I am is because of my dad, who is someone that is involved in social welfare programmes. Growing up in that kind of environment motivated me to become the person I am today.”  

Shunmugam said one of his highlights so far was becoming the youngest PhD graduate in the university’s Faculty of Theology and Religious Studies in 2022. 

“I did not set out on this journey with that goal in mind. I aimed to complete my PhD. However, learning that I was the youngest PhD graduate at age 25 was a memorable moment. Another recent accomplishment was joining the military and completing the basic training, which was difficult. 

“Another highlight was participating in the Walk for Access initiative. In 2019, I participated in the walk from Cape Town to Pretoria, and in 2021, from Durban to Pretoria. The initiative aimed to raise funds for students at tertiary institutions. It was a life-altering and unforgettable experience being able to journey through the country and meeting different people. My entire perception of the world and myself changed."

Shunmugam added that his goal was to expand his involvement in communities as a chaplain. 

“Being a chaplain has a meaningful impact on society. It is also shaping me as an individual. My goal is to find ways to give back to the community and be able to contribute to the different ways in which young leaders can be created, so that they can make significant contributions such as to put forward policies in institutions to prioritise social justice, human dignity, and equality."

Shunmugam said he encouraged South Africans to embrace their capacity for social awareness and active contribution.

“I believe in serving the community and having some element of social awareness. I think when we take a step in that direction of making an active contribution to society in whatever way possible, we become who we are truly meant to be. 

“At times, one may think they don't have skills or knowledge. However, it doesn’t mean you can't play a role in some way or the other in ensuring the well-being of your community and in the broader context, South Africa,” he said.

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