Religion and the Military: A Balanced Approach. Understanding Naval Chaplaincy Through the Lens of Recent Department of the Navy Religious Ministry Policies
Abstract
New DON policies on religious ministry, religious accommodation, chaplain confidentiality, and advisement represent a balanced approach to the government's Constitutional responsibilities with regard to religion. These new policies reflect an appropriate, albeit delicate, Constitutional balance between the rights and needs of Service members and the requirements of the Services. These policies also reflect counterpoised trends of uniformity and diversity in military culture which exist in complex relationship with the larger society. The new policies articulate a comprehensive, logically consistent, constitutionally grounded approach to religion in the military, protecting and empowering Service members, their chaplains and commanders. They present clear and necessary boundaries for the activities of chaplains in order to preserve constitutionality and retain their noncombatant status. These policies represent a balanced approach which will shape the military's accommodation of religion and the role of chaplains in the 21st century.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 30, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA604372
Entities
People
- John A. Kalantzis
Organizations
- Marine Corps University