Q. Are there any special exemptions that apply to Catholic Military chaplains serving non-Catholic Christian members of the Armed Forces?
Under battlefield conditions there is no Baptist or other Protestant Chaplain available to serve the troops. However, there is a Roman Catholic chaplain. Can a Catholic Military chaplain hold a Baptist service for members of the Armed Forces on the battlefield?
Here is what Fr. Patrick Manning of Walsh University had to say on the topic,
"There is certainly no problem with a Catholic Chaplain leading a simple scriptural prayer service for other Christians – we share the bible. In that instance, it would not be a “Baptist” service, nor would it be any other specific denomination within Christianity, it would be a general service of prayer for believing Christians.
The Catholic priest could not, though, have Mass and give Holy Communion to those of a Protestant denomination, but a prayer service – especially in the context of a war or a battle, would be acceptable."
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According to Military OneSource, the Unit Chaplain's first obligations are to active duty service members and their family members. These obligations include the following:
Conducting worship and administering sacraments — Chaplains are responsible for making sure that service members have the opportunity to worship as they choose. This means that chaplains conduct worship services and administer sacraments consistent with their own faith and also seek out accommodations for persons of other faiths. For example, since a Protestant chaplain can't legitimately perform a Mass for Roman Catholics, the chaplain can locate a Roman Catholic chaplain to administer the sacrament.
Performing other religious ceremonies and services — Chaplains also perform religious rites and ceremonies such as marriages and funeral or memorial services.
Counseling service members and their families
Visitation
Advising commanders on moral, ethical and spiritual issues
Developing religious education programs and youth activities
Conducting seminars and retreats
Accompanying service members into combat
Combat stress intervention
For more information, visit Military OneSource or the sources listed under More Info.