Canadian military directive orders chaplains to swap prayers for secular 'reflections'
· Toronto Sun
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OTTAWA — Forget atheists in foxholes — Canada’s military brass are putting secularism on the front lines.
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In a new directive issued last week by the Canadian Armed Forces, chaplains are now prohibited from delivering faith-specific prayers at official military ceremonies, directed instead to replace prayers for traditional invocations with secular “spiritual reflections.”
Under Military Personnel Instruction 03/26 , titled Spiritual Reflections in Military Settings and issued on July 29, military members and chaplains delivering public remarks now must refrain from using faith-specific words, rituals or symbols.
“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,” said an excerpt from the directive.
“These principles are grounded in a respect for freedom of conscience and religious expression, while upholding the dignity and value of diverse spiritual traditions.”
Religious neutrality won’t apply to Indigenous ceremonies: Directive
These new rules came nearly three years after chaplains were advised to remove references to God and religious language from Remembrance Day ceremonies , urging members to “adopt a sensitive and inclusive approach” during public addresses — as well as directives to discard traditional military chaplain stoles and replace individual symbols of faith with a generic chaplain’s crest.
“Chaplains must consider the potential that some items or symbols may cause discomfort or traumatic feelings when choosing the dress they wear during public occasions,” the 2023 directive said , as well as to stop requesting attendees remove their hats or head coverings during “reflections.”
These edicts do not apply to Indigenous ceremonies, which the directive said may be included in military settings for “cultural, historical and educational” purposes.
“This approach reflects Canada’s constitutional recognition of Indigenous rights, the historical suppression of Indigenous traditions by the state and an ongoing commitment to reconciliation. It does not constitute an endorsement or advancement of a particular system of belief,” the directive said.
A “frequently asked questions” primer prepared by the Department of National Defence, a copy of which was obtained by the Toronto Sun , said the difference lies in “two distinct legal and ethical” obligations concerning religious neutrality and reconciliation.
“Indigenous spiritual practices can serve to promote understanding, inclusion, and reconciliation — goals that are both supported under the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s calls to action and the government of Canada’s reconciliation framework,” the primer said.
“It’s also important to acknowledge historical context. For generations, Indigenous traditions were suppressed or criminalized, even as dominant institutions, including religious institutions, shaped public life. Today, honouring Indigenous voices and practices helps to restore balance and affirm dignity — not by setting aside neutrality, but by embracing a more complete and inclusive understanding of it.”
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Directive won’t diminish chaplain’s role: DND
Embracing the directive, the primer said, won’t diminish the depth or authenticity — and offers suggestions for chaplains struggling to comprehend the new rules.
“Creating inclusive reflections requires only small, thoughtful shifts in language and tone,” the primer said.
“Instead of ‘Dear Lord, thank you for your blessings …’ try, ‘Let us be grateful for our good fortune.’ Instead of: ‘Oh God, we pray for your protection over our deploying teammates …’ try, ‘We hold close in our thoughts those preparing to deploy and wish them strength, safety.'”
Chaplaincy, the primer said, is rooted in “connection, care and presence” and the ability for chaplains to adapt their message is a “sign of professionalism, empathy and leadership.”
In a statement to the Toronto Sun , a Department of National Defence spokesperson said the directive isn’t meant to limit any CAF personnel’s personal beliefs.
“The aim is for ceremonial moments to bring people together, regardless of belief,” said a portion of the statement.
“The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service continues to offer prayer, support religious expression and care in settings where it is voluntary, meaningful and relevant to the individuals present.”
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