THE QUEEN WILL ATTEND A SERVICE TO CELEBRATE 100 YEARS OF THE ROYAL ARMY CHAPLAINS’ DEPARTMENT’S ‘ROYAL’ PREFIX
FRIDAY 22ND FEBRUARY 2019
Her Majesty The Queen, Patron, The Royal Army Chaplains’ Department, will attend a service to celebrate the centenary of the granting by King George V of the prefix ‘Royal’ to the department, at The Guards’ Chapel, Wellington Barracks on Friday 22nd February, 2019.
The Queen will join the Chaplain-General and current and former chaplains to recognise the sacrifice made and service given by Army Chaplains in conflicts past and present and reflect on the enduring need for chaplaincy to support soldiers on active duty. The service will include readings from chaplains’ diaries and will culminate in an Act of Dedication when all serving Army Chaplains will be invited to reaffirm their commitment and rededicate themselves in service. In an act of global unity Army Chaplains on operations around the world will pause in prayer to join the rededication.
Following the service, Her Majesty will view three paintings, specially commissioned to commemorate the 100th anniversary, and meet the artist, Mr Harry Parker who served with the Rifles in Iraq and Afghanistan, losing both his legs in active duty in 2009. The Queen will also meet current Padres and former Chaplains-General as well as soldiers who have either helped chaplains in their daily duties or who have benefited from the support and care of chaplains in barracks or on operations.
Army Chaplains minister to soldiers and their families in times of war and peace, providing spiritual support, pastoral care and moral guidance to all, irrespective of religion or beliefs. They accompany troops and can lead and manage but do not command. Chaplains wear uniforms of the British Army but are non-combatants.
The Army Chaplains’ Department was formed in 1796 under the first Chaplain-General, the Reverend John Gamble. On 22nd February 1919, The Queen’s grandfather, King George V, bestowed their Royal title in recognition of its outstanding service and sacrifice during the First World War. 179 British Army chaplains died in WW1 and three were awarded Victoria Cross Medals.
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