287.18(M1)Figure 4-17.—Final Taps.which they are assigned, civilian clergypersons orvisiting chaplains may officiate as requested by thecouple. The officiating chaplain or clergyperson willmost likely be of the same faith as the couple.Since chaplains like other Navy personnel aresubject to being transferred, it can be expectedthat customs and procedures regulating marriageceremonies in chapels will change over a period oftime. This being the case the chapel brochureshould reflect current practices in the chapel.FEES.—Chaplains on active duty are paid bythe Government and are prohibited by law fromcharging fees or receiving gratuities for servicesrendered to military personnel and theirdependents. When a civilian clergyperson(minister, priest, or rabbi) assists the chaplain at awedding or when clergypersons officiate atweddings in their own churches or synagogues,they normally receive a fee.PREMARITAL COUNSELING.—The preparationfor marriage includes much more than arrangingfor the ceremony. Whether it is to a formal militarywedding or a simple ceremony the chaplain orclergyperson may desire to spend time incounseling the couple before the wedding takesplace. Some faiths have special requirementsassociated with premarital counseling. The RP willneed to obtain this information from the officiatingchaplain or clergyperson.The RP should schedule premarital counselingsessions in coordination with the request of thechaplain and the couple concerned. The RP shouldschedule the wedding, rehearsals, and relatedactivities as directed by the chaplain. The chaplainmay specify, in writing, any special items or areasof concern which need to be addressed prior to thescheduling of the rehearsal or the weddingceremony. These instructions should be placed onfile with the application for use of the chapel topermit immediate followup by the RP and forfuture reference.The ChapelThe chapel is usually reserved on a firstcome, first served basis in accordance with4-24
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