This directive comes in spite of the Canadian national anthem’s mention of the line asking God to keep Canada “glorious and free.”
The Canadian Armed Forces has issued new guidance directing military chaplains to forbid religious-specific language, including that of Christians and including references to God, during public ceremonies and official events. This directive comes in spite of the Canadian national anthem's mention of the line asking God to keep Canada "glorious and free."
The policy, issued July 29 by the Chief of Military Personnel, states that “spiritual reflections” delivered in military settings must remain inclusive and cannot include religious language tied to a specific faith tradition, including Christianity.
The new instruction applies to all CAF members and those providing spiritual or religious services in support of the military. It replaces previous guidance from the Chaplain General on spiritual reflections in public settings.
According to the policy, spiritual reflections are intended to promote resilience, meaning, purpose, and spiritual well-being while respecting members from different religious and non-religious backgrounds.
“Spiritual reflections do not use religious specific language, including references to God, etc. They reflect upon lessons learned, beliefs, values, and experiences to inspire gratitude, remembrance, hope, and integrity,” the document states.
The directive says the CAF must maintain religious neutrality during public duties and that members have the right to freedom of religion, including the freedom to hold no religious beliefs, just not during government duries.
https://twitter.com/andrewlawton/status/2082995611280740820?s=46&t=bhRsCFycz_nOQT66mhEqCA
The policy covers military ceremonies including those in public and and events including graduation parades, change of command ceremonies, ship commissioning events, awards ceremonies, seasonal dinners, and commemorative events such as Remembrance Day.
Under the Liberal Party's new rules, when prayers or religious observances are requested at official military events, chaplains must instead provide a "spiritual reflection" without mention of God.
The instruction also says the change does not prevent chaplains from providing religious care in private settings, including counselling, faith-specific gatherings, worship services, or requested religious rites.
“This policy does not limit a chaplain’s personal beliefs or ability to provide spiritual or religious care,” the CAF stated. “It defines the boundaries of appropriate language during public military ceremonies where chaplains act as representatives of the CAF rather than their own SFT,” the directive claims.
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