Chaplains at War: The Role of Clergymen During World War II

(Paperback)

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Patriotism and religious belief were defining characteristics of both public and private life during the 20th century. British army chaplains were shaped by these powerful sentiments and in turn shaped and interpreted them to understand their own roles and to provide a message and ministry to soldiers and officers. Focusing on World War II, "Chaplains at War" reveals how the army, the government and the churches responded to the challenges of war, leading to innovation that was unknown in peace time such as the appointing women as Chaplains' Assistants. Alan Robinson uses interviews with former chaplains, officers and soldiers and extensive archive research in military, government and church archives to draw together personal experience and official policy. His book will be essential reading for anyone interested in British military history, church history and religious studies.

Reviews

'An accomplished original piece of research which greatly enhances our knowledge and understanding of British Army Chaplains at war in the twentieth century....his work effectively explores the role of chaplains confronting conflict while managing to also locate the Royal Army Chaplains' Department (RAChD) in the broader scope of British society and its changing attitudes to religion in the twentieth century. The work is also a fascinating study into how government, religion and army interacted in times of national crisis. The attitude of soldiers and by implication wider society to religion is also thoughtfully analyzed giving the work a wider appeal and significance beyond those simply interested in the history of army chaplains in the context of regimental, corps or unit histories. This is valuable contribution to our understanding of war and religion in the context of British society which surely is one of the enduring themes of the modern age.' - Dr. Ronald J Barr, formerly Head of History and Archaeology at the University of Chester and author of The Progressive Army: Military Reform in the Progressive Era 1870-1914 and Images of England: The Cheshire Regiment 1850-2000

Author Bio

Alan Robinson completed his PhD at Chester University College. He is a student on the Army's Advanced Command and Staff Course and was formerly Policy Analyst in the Directorate of Operational Capability (MOD).