Chaplains, then and now

There was an interesting concurrence involving chaplains recently when two historical events took place: the Senate impeachment trial and the national observance of Four Chaplains Day on Feb. 3.

In one event, four chaplains were remembered for giving their own lifejackets to shipmates 75 years ago when the troop ship Dorchester sank during World War ll.

Although the chaplains were all of different religions, each handed his lifejacket to a shipmate without asking if the soldier shared his faith. As the ship sank, the chaplains were seen standing on the deck, arms linked, reciting prayers and singing hymns. As survivor John Ladd said, “It was the finest thing I have seen or hope to see this side of heaven."

In contrast with this year’s Four Chaplains Day was the Senate impeachment trial, which, with its antagonism and negotiation about witnesses, resembled a hostage-taking more than a judicial proceeding.

But at the beginning of each day, the calm voice of Rear Admiral Barry C. Black (Ret.), Senate Chaplain, was heard offering prayers before the Senators’ deliberations.

Chaplains don’t usually have the spotlight, largely because they don’t seek it.

And yet even George Washington knew the importance of chaplains. As he wrote in a letter, "For wont of a chaplain does, I humbly conceive, reflect dishonor upon the regiment."

Each day before the start of the Senate battle, Black became the adult in the room, delivering on Washington’s thoughts more than two centuries later. In the few minutes allowed to him, Black’s prayers served as a powerful reminder to behave honorably.  

“As our lawmakers have become jurors,” Black prayed, “... help them remember that patriots reside on both sides of the aisle, that words have consequences and that how something is said can be as important as what is said.”  

On another day, Black asked, “In spite of disagreements, may they strive for stability and respect. May they respect the right of the opposing side to differ regarding convictions and conclusions. Give them the wisdom to distinguish between facts and opinions without lambasting the messengers.”

Each morning’s prayer seemed to comment on Senate behavior from the previous day. “...May they strive to have a clear conscience in whatever they do for you and country. Lord, help them remember that listening is often more than hearing. It can be an empathetic attentiveness that builds bridges and unites. May our senators not permit fatigue or cynicism to jeopardize friendships that have existed for years...”

Chaplain Black’s words harmonized with those recited at the Four Chaplains Day observance, which praises  “Unity that transcends all our differences and makes us one in loyalty to our country and our fellowmen...”

It’s highly unlikely that we will see Republican and Democratic leadership link arms and sing hymns on the deck of the ship of state. Or hand over anything of value to a member of the opposing party.

And, although part of the historical record, we don’t know if people will remember Chaplain Black’s words 75 years from now.

What we can hope is that his daily appeal to the better angels of their nature will linger in the chamber and be heard by every member of Congress.

“...help them remember that listening is often more than hearing.”

Thank you, Chaplain.

Let us pray.