British Imperial Army Chaplaincies in the First World War: A Study and Theological Reflection on Multi-Religious Provision

Abstract

The British Empire in the First World War encompassed a cultural and religious diversity which allows the modern observer to draw lessons from its experience which will be relevant for today. The imperial chaplaincies of the First World War were both multi-denominational and multi-religious. This dissertation explores Anglican models of chaplaincy, and the many and varied models exercised by other denominations and religions. Whilst many previous studies have looked in detail at specific areas and/or religious traditions, this broader study considers the Army chaplaincies of Great Britain, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, the West Indies, India, South Africa, and British East and West Africa. These are considered by religious groupings, namely Anglican, Non-Anglican (all other Protestant denominations), Roman Catholic, Jewish, and other World Religions.
Having surveyed the experience of these imperial chaplaincies, this is considered in the light of theological literature on chaplaincy in a wide-ranging theological reflection on the diverse models of ministry practised by these First World War chaplains. Such material and reflections, it is argued, can inform the exercise of British Army chaplaincy in an increasingly pluralistic society. The study concludes that there is no one way of doing Army Chaplaincy, but many options which should be determined by context, personality, and the soldiers themselves.
This study uses material from the past to illuminate the future, and to learn from those who went before us in the darkest of days. The chaplain’s most important task is to bring light into the darkness. This study shows how this was achieved in the First World War and how these precedents are relevant for today.