This unique Archdiocese is faced with many challenges, including a severe shortage of Catholic priest-chaplains, a flock spread out at military installations across the world and constant transition. The AMS receives no funding from the military or the government and must rely solely on private donors. The AMS annual operating budget is over $8 million. In addition, the AMS share of expenses for the Co-Sponsored Seminarian Program will exceed $4 million in the next five years alone.

Located at the Edwin Cardinal O’Brien Pastoral Center in Washington, D.C., it is an unconventional diocese with no parishes or parish registries; a stark contrast with the model of territorial dioceses.