It seems as though the term “diversity” is in the news quite often these days.
We read about diversity in the workplace, diversity in the classroom, cultural diversity, multicultural diversity, ethnic diversity — you get the picture.
Most people tend to think of diversity in terms of the categories of race, age, gender and national origin.
The greatest diversity that we have today, however, is in our religious life.
Since those serving in the military largely represent society as a whole, the military mirrors the great religious diversity of our country as well.
As a case-in-point, a recent study indicated that military service members identified themselves with more than 109 religious organizations.
Civilian clergy, with titles such as “Pastor,” Father,” Rabbi,” and “Imam,” are sent by their religious organizations to serve in the military as chaplains.
As professionals in military ministry, chaplains must have an understanding of the concepts of religious diversity, tolerance, and pluralism in order to function effectively within the military structure.
Diversity, tolerance and pluralism can be scary terms for some; conjuring up ideas of relativism and theological compromise.
Tags: civilian clergy, military, pluralism, religious diversity, religious life, Rev. Stephen Duesenberry, theological compromise, tolerance
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