The number of chaplains in the army has increased more than twentyfold over four years
Spiritual mentors within the ranks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine currently represent 15 religious associations, with their staff having increased more than twentyfold over four years. This became known during a briefing at the Ukrinform news agency dedicated to the development of military chaplaincy. This is reported by the portal PromPolitInform, citing the Telegram channel of the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The motto of the chaplains’ activities is defined as «To be side by side». The institution of military chaplaincy was born out of war and tested by its harsh realities.
Spiritual support for the military
Religious representatives accompany military personnel at all stages of service: from basic training in training centers and permanent deployment locations to direct presence in combat zones. The chaplaincy corps includes Orthodox, Greek and Roman Catholics, representatives of Protestant churches, as well as Muslims and Jews.
Initiative for a new holiday
Considering the importance of further developing the institution of military chaplaincy, the Ukrainian Council of Churches and Religious Organisations recently appealed to the President of Ukraine supporting the proposal of military chaplains to establish a Day of the Military Chaplain on October 12.
The idea of introducing such a holiday is a joint initiative of various religious organisations and military chaplaincy services across different branches and services of the armed forces.
Photo: Капелани ЗСУ
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