Pentagon Reduces Recognized Religious Affiliations

The Department of Defense announced a significant reduction in the number of religious affiliations it officially recognizes. Previously, over 200 traditions were acknowledged, but the list has been narrowed to 31. Notable exclusions include atheists, Unitarian Universalists, pagans, and Wiccans.

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell clarified that the reduction does not undermine the legitimacy of any belief or convey a hierarchy of approved religions. Instead, it aims to help chaplains assess the religious composition of their units to allocate resources effectively.

Parnell emphasized the department’s commitment to religious freedom, stressing the importance of service members’ ability to practice their chosen faith or have none. The revised list encompasses broader categories of Christian traditions, such as Baptist, Presbyterian, and Methodist, without delving into specific denominations.

Service members have options to identify as “no religion,” “other religions,” or agnostic. Other included faiths are Buddhism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Sikhism, the Baha’i faith, and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The Unitarian Universalist Association expressed concern about the exclusion, stating that this might hinder uniformed UUs’ access to required spiritual care.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s influence is evident, often intertwining evangelical Christianity with Pentagon leadership. The Rev. Paul Raushenbush criticized the changes, claiming they elevate one religious perspective, violating the First Amendment.

The military is diverse, with nearly 70% of troops identifying as Christian, per a 2019 congressional report. Irene Glasse, a pagan religious professional and Marine veteran, emphasized the importance of minority religious representation in the military.

AP’s religion coverage is supported by The Conversation US and funded by Lilly Endowment Inc.