441-01890 (Civil and human rights)

The Defence Team deeply values the work of military chaplains to support Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and their families, and we will continue to build a diverse, inclusive military that attracts and retains talented people, as well as a chaplaincy that reflects the diversity of spiritual and faith beliefs of Canada and supports both the free expression of religious belief and the right of military members not to express a religious belief.

The Royal Canadian Chaplain Service holds deep respect for the diverse religious and spiritual belief systems and practices of serving and retired CAF members, their families and Canadians. As such, CAF chaplains prioritize cultivating inclusive environments where all can feel welcome at ceremonies and events in which chaplains participate or offer leadership. This is why prayer and other faith-specific language that may be offered by CAF chaplains is very much subject to the context, participants and intended nature of the gathering or ceremony in which they are participating, including whether the ceremony or event is secular or non-secular in nature, open to the public at large, or private.

With respect to Remembrance Day, specifically, most important to the Chaplain General is maintaining the focus on honouring the sacrifice of all who have gone before us in service to Canada, and to offer thanksgiving for their service and sacrifice. It is paramount that chaplains continue to offer words of remembrance, encouragement, and hope to CAF members and their families.