The Royal Army Chaplains Museum has received accreditation by Arts Council England. The museum joins hundreds across the UK in gaining the recognition. This milestone acknowledges it is helping people engage with collections and protecting them for the future.
The Chaplain General, The Reverend Canon Michael D Parker KHC CF in the Armed Forces Chaplaincy Centre, Beckett House, Shrivenham on 12th July 24.
The Royal Army Chaplains’ Museum is the proud recipient of Full Accreditation Status by the Arts Council England, awarded on 9th May 2024.
Officially opened by the Countess of Wessex in 2022, the Royal Army Chaplains Museum seeks to promote public understanding of the place and value of religion and belief in the military.
Showcasing exhibits that range from a Bible taken by a chaplain to the Crimea in 1854, to a copy of Sikh Daily Prayers produced by the Defence Sikh Network in 2022, the museum hosts a multitude of Army memorabilia and artefacts.
Being a unit chaplain is a humbling privilege and each day is different. There are times I find myself being with individuals who are going through serious issues in life.
The museum tells the surprising story of faith in the forces.
When exploring the museum visitors can:
- See how clergy has accompanied the Army in times of war and peace.
- Hear how padres have guided and cared for the troops.
- Explore how, during tough times, soldiers have wrestled with religion and belief.
- Remember and reflect on the biggest issues of life in the military.
With more than 60 per cent of Army personnel following a religion, the museum aims to serve as a safe place for personnel of all religions.
I have always been a Christian and faith is so important to me because it is a key part of my identity and provides me with a deep sense of meaning and purpose in life.
Private Dennis Darko, from The Mercian Regiment said: “I have always been a Christian and faith is so important to me because it is a key part of my identity and provides me with a deep sense of meaning and purpose in life.”
“Since joining the Army in 2022, I have practiced my faith openly without any fear and even those who do not have faith respect my belief. I am pleased to have a chaplain in my unit who I can go to for spiritual and pastoral support.”
Daniel Njuguna, a unit padre for The Mercian Regiment said: “Being a unit chaplain is a humbling privilege and each day is different. There are times I find myself being with individuals who are going through serious issues in life such as death and illness in the family, breakdown in relationships and mental health problems.”
“I am often there as a listening ear, mediation and signposting accordingly.”
The museum is open all year-round Monday to Friday and is free to enter for the public.
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