287.17(M1)
Figure 4-16.— The committal.
example of an application may be seen in figure
4-18. Following this step, an appointment should
be made with the chaplain for further information
about premarital counseling and scheduling the
wedding. The original application should be kept
on file at the chapel with a copy being given to
the applicant at the time of submission.
Normally, applications will be processed on a first
come, first served basis.
ENTITLEMENTS.— There is a distinction
between the entitlement of military and sea
service personnel to use the Navy chapel facilities
for a wedding and entitlement to have the
ceremony performed by a chaplain. The latter is a
religious rite rather than a Government benefit. If
possible, chapel facilities should be made
available to all personnel desiring to use them in
accordance with local instructions. However, the
question of whether or not a particular chaplain
can officiate is one that the chaplain alone can
answer, on the basis of ecclesiastical regulations
and the chaplain’s personal conscience.
The Chaplain
If a religious ceremony is planned, it is
important that the engaged couple consult the
chaplain (clergyperson) well in advance of the
wedding date. Premarital couseling with the
couple is required by most chaplains prior to
the performance of the wedding ceremony.
Although chaplains will officiate at most
ceremonies held in the chapel of the command to
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