New directive on prayer doesn’t affect Remembrance Day services: Legion
The Royal Canadian Legion says it is not affected by a new rule changing the language used in Remembrance Day prayers by military chaplains.
The new directive was released by the Department of National Defence on Oct 11. In the directive, any prayers given by chaplains in public gatherings and ceremonies must now be inclusive in nature, and respectful of the religious and spiritual diversity of Canadians.
“Chaplains must carefully choose words that are inclusive,” the directive reads. “They should employ a language mindful of the Gender-Based Analysis (GBA+) principles, incorporate elements in both official languages, and include the use of local languages when appropriate.
Under the new order, chaplains will also wear a scarf with the crest of the Royal Canadian Chaplaincy Service rather than a symbol pertaining to a certain faith.