THE GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC (G.A.R.) CIVIL WAR
MUSEUM & ARCHIVE
Presents a Free Zoom Program
Sunday, October 6, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.
“Soldiers of Faith – The Chaplains of the Civil War”By Walt Lafty
In the American Civil War, the overwhelming numbers of soldiers (both Union and Confederate), looked to religion and faith as a great sustainer of morale. Providing the spiritual needs were the clergy of almost every Christian denomination, rabbi’s and preachers of the Jewish faith, and even non-traditional ministers of the gospel.
Many of those preachers of God and their various denominational leadership, struggled with the issue of slavery in the years leading up to the war. Interpretations of scripture divided many. Yet, a few thousand of those “Soldiers of Faith” volunteered to serve as Hospital, Regimental, and Post Chaplains.
Many suffered and died, both of disease and killed in combat. Some even took up arms when situations arose, and some earned high accolades in official reports as well as a few who earned the Medal of Honor. The focus will be on highlighting some of the instrumental Chaplains who served from many religious organizations.
Walt Lafty is a historian with a focus on the American Civil War (1861-1865), but also World War 2, as well as the history of Ireland. He has been active in various Civil War groups for many years. Those include the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) Museum where he serves as the research administrator and volunteer. He is also active in the Delaware Valley CWRT where he is a board member as well as a member of the preservation committee. Walt is also an active member of Baker-Fisher Camp 101 Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War in Hatboro and currently serves as the camp secretary. In addition, he is a member of the Old Baldy CWRT and the General Meade Society.
To reserve a virtual seat for this outstanding presentation, reply by e-mail to garmuslib1866@gmail.com
You will be sent a link with a password that will enable you to access the program within 24 hours of the start of the presentation.
Deadline for signing-up is Saturday, October 5, 2024 at Noon.
As a lover of history, you know how critical it is to keep history alive, especially today. We very much appreciate your continued support for the GAR Civil War Museum & Archive
GRAND ARMY OF THE REPUBLIC MUSEUM & ARCHIVE
8110 Frankford Ave. (Holmesburg - N.E. Philadelphia), 19136
www.garmuslib.org