Chaplain duties

[carson_reb]

I am a real-life lay chaplain in my community, in which I visit assisted living facilities as a volunteer. On the battlefield and in reenactor camp, I portray a regimental chaplain. I hold informal services for the unit, offer prayers before and after battles, assist the wounded on the field, act as a stretcher-bearer, of sorts, during the battles, etc.

One thing I haven't done is lead formal services at reenactor events. Can I do this as a lay minister? I am not credentialed, ordained or endorsed by any ecclesiastical body, so I know that my duties are limited to an unofficial capacity; meaning that I cannot officiate weddings or funerals, or perform sacraments like communion.

But I have in real life presided over a memorial service. Can I ethically do this as a chaplain reenactor? What about presiding over a renewal of wedding vows? It wouldn't be the same as officiating an actual legal marriage, would it?

I would appreciate some feedback and input.

Thank you kindly.

 

[Republican Blues]

I would refer to your state laws, as power is vested in the clergy not only by thier Governing body but by the state as well.

FWIW here is what the Revised Regulations of The United States say about Chaplains.

http://books.google.com/books?id=yQ...ource=gbs_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false

Not trying to harsh your gig... what you do is admirable, and may you keep at it.

I wouldnt see why you could not lead formal nondenominational services, but I am not a theology expert or have any idea of the legality or propriety of this.. Please let me know what you find out.. I am interested in what you find.

 

[carson_reb]

I would refer to your state laws, as power is vested in the clergy not only by thier Governing body but by the state as well.

Well, now, that just makes too much darn common sense, doesn't it? :O Thanks, 64, for reminding me.

 

[carson_reb]

I will keep you apprised of what I find out. I would like to know in the event that members of my club approach me and want me to lead formal Sunday services. I want to know that I can tell them yes, or if not, tell them why not.

 

[Blessmag]

The IRS sort of stays out of this. They don't want to get involved in saying who is a preacher and who is not. In fact, you can actually go online and get a license and "be certified". Yes, a mail order degree that is "recognized".

Each state does have their own process. It may actually be in the local county. Here in Minnesota, you file by county. But to hold a service, you don't need credentials. You just can't marry!

Since you already are a chaplain, that is a credential of a sort.

bigger question, would the troops want to come to a service? Sometimes is hard to lead a horse to water or to push a string. Having met very few re-enactors, they seem to be not interested in church services but, shall we say, consuming adult beverages and having fun. Some obvious are into correct history, but others....

 

[boats752]

Back when I did WW2 5th Rangers we had a real life chaplin lead services before battle, I persoanlly think it adds to the over all atmosphere, and never hurts to have a little extra protection against injury or accidents, as for people actually attending services.. well that has always been a personal choice now and in war. and its a sad day when our PC over controlling governement has to regulate religon. I say bring it on padre and do the Lords work

 

[carson_reb]

Actually, most members of my club are church-oriented people...which might seem kind of strange in a state that has both legalized gambling and prostitution. Attendance won't be a problem.

I appreciate your input. Do you know if lay ministers in your state can preside over funerals or renewal of nuptials? I've gotten mixed answers with regard to Nevada. Not that a funeral is something that I would want to do, mind you, but if I was asked, I wouldn't want to decline unless I ethically or legally could not. As I said before, I was asked once and accepted the invitation to preside over a family memorial service. But it was family, so that may be different than somebody in the community coming up to me and asking me to do it.

 

[elfdream]

I know here at Ceder Creek they hold a Catholic Mass and its a 'real' mass. I went last fall t was very well attended by participants and spectators despite the fact that it was in Latin!!!