Recurrent themes and purposes in the sermons of the union army chaplains

Abstract

T surrender of Fort Sumter ended the last chance for reconciliation and compromise between the Unionists and the Secessionists. Lincoln called for an army. Since Congress was not in session, he and the War Department issued a series of proclamations, directives, and regulations designed to mold the state militia companies and volunteer groups into a national military force. Near the end of one long directive was a simple statement which permitted each regiment to have a Christian chaplain if it so desired.