Chaplains cannot say God at Remembrance Day I read the actual order

On July 29, 2026, the Canadian Armed Forces quietly issued a new instruction governing what military chaplains may say during official ceremonies. There was no bill, no parliamentary debate, no committee hearing, and no vote—just a policy document posted to a government website. Four days later, it was already in effect.

This episode examines what CAFMPI 03/26 actually says, what changed from the 2023 guidance it replaced, and why I believe the biggest story isn't what most people are arguing about online.

I also explain where I think critics have overstated the policy. The instruction does not prohibit chaplains from praying at funerals, conducting religious services, providing private pastoral care, or wearing religious dress. Those claims don't survive a reading of the document, and I don't make them.

Instead, I focus on a different question: how guidance became permanent policy, how its scope expanded beyond chaplains, and why I believe Canadians should pay attention when significant changes occur through administrative directives rather than public debate.

I also examine one section almost no one is discussing—paragraphs 4.5 through 4.9—and ask why one set of traditions may remain within military ceremonies while another is moved outside them. Finally, I end with the one question I believe deserves a clear public answer before this Remembrance Day:

**Does CAFMPI 03/26 apply to a military repatriation (ramp) ceremony?**

If the Office of the Chaplain General responds to my written request, I'll publish that response in full, whether it supports my conclusions or not.

Every source is linked below.

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