The necessity of the military chaplaincy with reference to the Namibian context

Abstract

Abstract provided by author:

The assumption is made and the hypothesis developed that a military chaplaincy in a secular state, where the majority of citizens belongs to an established religion, is a necessity. In such a state the citizens have the right to promote the military chaplaincy, just as they have the right to promote science, law, education, etc. However, what is theoretically stated in the Namibian Constitution, i. e. to have "freedom to practise any religion and to manifest such practice", should be practically implemented by having e. g. a military chaplaincy service. The thesis thus argues that there is a great need and necessity to appreciate and recognise the military chaplaincy, particularly in the NDF

This argument is developed by firstly giving a contextual orientation (chapter 2) about the role that military chaplaincies have played in the Southern African sub-region, especially in the South African Defence Force (SADF), the new South African National Defence Force (SANDF), and SWAPO-in-exile. It also touches on the debate about the churches' involvement in war situations where human rights have been violated by both sides

thereafter (chapter 3) fundamental issues regarding military chaplaincy are addressed, taking selected examples from the Biblical tradition and church history, and taking due note of principal debates that have informed the theories on pacifism and just war, as well as international law and agreements on war

In chapter 4 a professional profile of the chaplaincy is developed, stressing the dual role of the chaplain, as "insider" in the military (in times of war and peace), but also as religious pastor with a specially focussed ministry. It is emphasised that special qualifications, training, endorsement by the religious bodies involved, and special administrative support, are required to ensure the professional functioning of a successful chaplaincy service

In chapter 5 the mandate, given by the Constitution and religious bodies, as well as the military establishment, for the Namibian chaplaincy, is discussed and used as a backdrop for investigating the future challenges and problems to be faced. Various suggestions are then made to ensure sufficient staffing and resources, good policy and training, secular and ecumenical cooperation, as well as all the special pastoral concerns in a military context

In conlusion it is argued that all religious bodies ought to recognise their obligation to minister to their members of the NDF, and to grant opportunities to people to exercise their religion freely, according to the cultures and traditions they represent. It is also stressed that various practical arrangements can be made to ensure efficiency in recruitment, training, policy- making and service