Full Description
What role does religion play in the Canadian Forces today? Examining the changing functions of the official religious leaders in the chaplaincy as well as the place and purpose of religion in the lives of regular military personnel, Religion in the Ranks explores this question in the context of late modernity and the Canadian secular state.
In-depth interviews with chaplains and with personnel of differing spiritual beliefs offer insight into how religion affects the real life experiences of those who have endured difficult assignments, witnessed atrocities, and struggled to overcome post-traumatic stress disorder. While identifying the historic function of religion in the Canadian Forces, Joanne Benham Rennick demonstrates that spiritual interests remain important, even to those who do not consider themselves to be religious. Arguing that the leadership, practices, and beliefs rooted in religious affiliations create essential support systems for individuals, both at home and on assignment, Benham Rennick shows that there is still a place for religion in Canada's military.
Contents
Acknowledgements
Foreword, by Lieutenant-General RomÉo Dallaire
PART ONE: Introduction
Premise
Methods
The Late Modern Approach to Religion
PART TWO: An Historical Overview of the CF Chaplaincy
1914-1945: Forming a Chaplain Branch
1946-1980: Becoming a Modern Bureaucratic Force
1980-2007: A "Postmodern" Context
The 21st Century: Towards an Interfaith Branch
PART THREE: Unusual Officers
Personality, Motivation, Commitment
Presence, Trust, and Rapport
Alike but Different
PART FOUR: The Rank and File
Private Religion
Religious Interests as a Response to Hardship and Suffering
Formal Religion
PART FIVE: Conclusions
The Continuing Significance of Religion
Modernization and Religion in the CF
Lack of Religious Knowledge
Stigma and Anomie
Bibliography
