100 Years of Christian Scientists in Military Chaplaincy
“An Army Chaplain, whatever his religious affiliations, ministers to all men in his division irrespective of their denomination.”
—“Report Regarding Our Wartime Work,” Christian Science Sentinel, July 17, 1943
In World War I, Christian Science chaplains had served at large, with a focus on ministering to Christian Scientists. During World War II they performed the same duties as other Protestant chaplains, which included holding non-denominational services and helping all soldiers maintain their morale. They also conducted Christian Science services and offered healing prayer whenever possible. From the home front to the front lines, they performed admirably.
Chaplain Milo Guild was one example. Serving on the deck of the SS Exchequer during the invasion of Normandy, he made his rounds, praying with soldiers and reading from the Christian Science Bible Lessons, which consist of selected passages from the Holy Bible and Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures. Although the Exchequer was under heavy fire throughout the crossing, Guild later reported that no lives were lost.
Chaplain Herbert Rieke conducts a funeral service for a US pilot. “Killed in Action,” Life Magazine, July 5, 1943. Church Archives. Image by Hart Preston. © Time Inc. All rights reserved.
Calcutta, India: Christian Science service, n.d. Photo by US Army Signal Corps. Church Archvies, Box 14979, Folder 313-483040
Christian Science chaplains, such as Army Air Corps chaplain Herbert E. Rieke, aided the communities they served. He received the Bronze Star for distinguished service. Stationed in Allied-controlled Italy in late 1943, he helped his unit throw a Christmas party for children around the American base. They collected toys, clothing, and candy, and even showed a cartoon about a dog. Many more children came than were invited, prompting soldiers to give out candy from their own rations. Rieke later wrote that when a lieutenant pointed out that they were not there to solve economic problems, he replied, “I am sent over here to help you men remember some of our fine American traditions; and one of those is to help the needy on Christmas.” The lieutenant promptly donated a dollar.
