Meeting of Orthodox Chaplains in the Canadian Armed Forces

His Grace Bishop Ioan Casian participated on Tuesday, June 10, 2025, in the online meeting of Orthodox chaplains serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. The meeting was held as part of the ongoing military program Called to Serve. The Romanian hierarch participated in the event as the permanent representative of the Canadian Conference of Orthodox Bishops (CCOB) to the Interfaith Committee on Canadian Military Chaplaincy (ICMCC).

The meeting brought together chaplains from various Orthodox jurisdictions active in Canada.

During the session, the Romanian hierarch presented an overview of the current relationship between the ICMCC and the Office of the Chaplain General of the Canadian Armed Forces. He also spoke about his participation in the installation ceremony of the new Chaplain General.

A significant topic of discussion was the recent recommendation addressed to military chaplains, advising them to avoid using the name of God in public prayers. In this context, the need for a clear Orthodox response was emphasized.

The participants also discussed the importance of compiling a complete list of Orthodox chaplains currently serving in the Canadian Armed Forces, as well as the development of a guiding document outlining the experience and qualifications required for those seeking to become military chaplains.

Additionally, it was agreed that a specific terminology should be adopted for lay military chaplains*, to bring greater clarity to the application process for military chaplaincy positions.

The meeting concluded with the chanting of the Troparion of the Descent of the Holy Spirit and the final blessing.

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*Lay military chaplains are individuals engaged in religious support roles who are not ordained clergy but may serve in military contexts under certain conditions defined by military regulations and their respective religious jurisdictions.