A study of role conflict in a changing society with special reference to some twentieth century problems

Abstract

This thesis arises out of a very practical and personal need to identify, examine and possibly resolve any role conflict that might be experienced by the military chaplain in the performance of his religious and military duties. It endeavours to trace the dilemma against a background of certain military and political activities and in the light of some theological comment to arrive at some form of modus Vivendi whereby those who legitimately take up arms in the defence of their country are not without the ministry and help of those who, in ordination, have taken up the profession of Jesus Christ. The history of the military chaplain is traced from the early days of his acceptance by society to the time when he begins to feel rejected and serious doubts are being raised as to his ability to serve both God and Caesar. In an attempt to discover if there is any support or even understanding for his peculiar and specialised ministry the relationship between Church and State is examined and analysed. The role of the chaplain in both war and peace is studied with particular reference to the nuclear deterrent debate, Northern Ireland and its problems and of course the two great world wars of the twentieth century. Questions are asked of many chaplains in an attempt to discover if the conflict is in any sense destructive of their ministry or indeed oreative. In the end the role of the military chaplain is seen to be but a microcosmic .reflection of the paradoxical role that is continually being experienced by all Christians in their attempts to establish the Kingdom of God in a world which is far from perfect.