How to Request Orthodox Religious Support in the U.S. Army

As an Orthodox Christian serving in the U.S. Army, you have the right to practice your faith and receive appropriate religious support. This guide will help you navigate the process of requesting religious accommodations with respect and determination.

Know Your Rights

Your religious rights are protected by:

Army Regulation 600-20, Paragraph 6-5 and Appendix G
The Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA)
Department of Defense Instruction (DoDI) 1300.17

These regulations ensure that service members can practice their religious faith while serving their country, unless there is a compelling government interest that cannot be addressed by less restrictive means.

Before Making a Formal Request

Seek Community Support: Connect with other Orthodox service members through our Fellowship. You are not alone.
Consult with an Orthodox Priest: If possible, speak with an Orthodox chaplain or priest who understands military regulations.
Document Your Needs: Be clear about what Orthodox practices you need accommodated (e.g., attendance at Divine Liturgy, fasting accommodations, religious holy days).

Making Your Request

Step 1: Speak with Your Immediate Chain of Command

Respectfully inform your immediate supervisor of your religious needs
Explain that these practices are essential to your Orthodox Christian faith
Request their support in obtaining appropriate accommodations

Step 2: Consult with Your Unit Chaplain

Schedule a meeting with your unit chaplain
Clearly explain your Orthodox faith requirements
Request assistance in obtaining appropriate religious support
If your chaplain is unfamiliar with Orthodox Christianity, politely offer to provide educational resources or connect them with an Orthodox priest

Step 3: Submit a Formal Written Request

If verbal requests are unsuccessful, submit a formal written request through your chain of command:

Draft a memorandum requesting specific religious accommodations
Cite AR 600-20, Paragraph 6-5, Appendix G, and RFRA
Clearly state that you are requesting this accommodation in order to practice your Orthodox Christian faith
Be specific about what accommodations you need
Request a written response as required by regulation

Step 4: Follow Up

Keep copies of all written communications
If you do not receive a written response within a reasonable timeframe (typically 30 days), respectfully inquire about the status
If your request is denied verbally, politely ask for the denial in writing as required by regulation

Step 5: If Your Request is Denied

If your request is denied in writing:

Review the stated reasons for denial
Consider consulting with:
- The Equal Opportunity (EO) Office
- The Inspector General (IG)
- Military legal assistance
- Orthodox chaplains or priests familiar with military regulations

Sample Request Format

MEMORANDUM FOR: [Commander's Name and Position] SUBJECT: Request for Religious Accommodation - Orthodox Christian Practices 1. I respectfully request religious accommodation in accordance with AR 600-20, paragraph 6-5 and Appendix G, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act, and DoDI 1300.17 to practice my Orthodox Christian faith while serving in the United States Army. 2. As an Orthodox Christian, I am requesting the following specific accommodation(s): [List specific accommodations needed, such as: - Attendance at Orthodox Divine Liturgy services on Sundays and major feast days - Accommodations for Orthodox fasting periods - Time for prayer at specified times - Other specific needs] 3. These practices are sincere expressions of my Orthodox Christian faith and essential to my spiritual well-being. 4. I understand that my request will be considered on a case-by-case basis. I am willing to discuss reasonable alternatives that would allow me to fulfill both my military duties and religious obligations. 5. In accordance with Army regulations, I respectfully request a written response to this accommodation request. 6. POC for this memorandum is the undersigned at [your contact information]. [Your Signature] [Your Name] [Your Rank] [Your Unit]

Remember

Maintain a respectful and professional demeanor throughout the process
Document everything
Be persistent but patient
Know that you are not alone in this journey

The Fellowship of the Forty Martyrs of Sebaste stands with you as you navigate these waters. Like the Forty, we remain steadfast in our faith while fulfilling our duties with honor.

"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellence of the power may be of God and not of us. We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed." - 2 Corinthians 4:7-9