US establishes office of religious affairs

The United States Department of War has set up an Office of Religious Affairs to bolster the "moral, ethical and spiritual readiness" of American military personnel. This decision was outlined in a recent memorandum distributed to top Pentagon officials, military commanders, and department staff on Wednesday. The new position of Director of the Office of Religious Affairs, serving as a Principal Staff Assistant to the Secretary of War, was also created.

The director will advise the Secretary and Deputy Secretary on religious affairs across the department.

The Office of Religious Affairs aims to provide necessary resources for religious affairs and ensure policies prioritize free religious exercise and spiritual readiness for service members. It will oversee funding, facilities, chaplain programs, and training for chaplains and religious support teams. The office will also support faith-based initiatives for suicide prevention, resilience, and contracted services from non-federal religious organizations.

The Armed Forces Chaplains Board and its executive director will report to the new Director of Religious Affairs. The Director of Cost Assessment and Program Evaluation, along with the Under Secretary of War and Chief Financial Officer, must establish an initial budget for the office within 60 days.