| For more than 200 years Navy Chaplains have worked to meet the diverse spiritual needs of the men and women of the Navy, Marine Corps and Merchant Marine. The Chaplains Corps was founded on 28 November 1775, the date on which the Continental Congress adopted the second Article of Navy Regulations stating "The commanders of ships of the Thirteen United Colonies are to take care ...that Divine Services are performed..." Since the nation's inception, clergy from the religious bodies of America have provided ministry to Navy people and their families. The Chaplains Corps motto "Cooperation without Compromise" is exemplified in the daily lives of chaplains, representing the myriad of faith groups, who work together administering to the members of the sea services and their families -- who themselves represent the spectrum of religious beliefs in our country.
Navy chaplains serve all three services‹the Navy, the Marine Corps, and the Coast Guard. They go where their people go and share their joys, hardships and dangers. The chaplain's presence takes many forms‹preacher, teacher, celebrant, counselor, confessor, friend to those in need. Above all, ashore or afloat, at home or abroad, in peace or war, the chaplain's presence bears witness to Almighty God, to the faith traditions of our nation, and to the abiding nature of life's moral, spiritual and religious foundations.
As leaders in the Navy, chaplains have initiated and supported a wide range of programs to better the quality of life of the individual sailor, marine, and their loved ones. Chaplains' spiritual ministry extends to family support programs, educational and counseling activities, and health and welfare concerns. Over the years, Navy chaplains have forged a proud tradition of faithfulness to God, to shipmates and their families, to the naval service, to our great nation and to each other. This legacy continues. Sponsored by Navy Chaplains and Navy Religious Program Specialists and parishioners. Sculptor: Klara Sever.
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