Washington D.C., May 7, 2013 / 23:08 pm
Uncertainty over what constitutes coercive "proselytism," which is barred by military policy, has led to concern and criticism of recent statements by the U.S. Department of Defense.
"Service members can share their faith (evangelize), but must not force unwanted, intrusive attempts to convert others of any faith or no faith to one's beliefs (proselytization)," Defense Department spokesman Lt. Cmdr. Nathan Christensen said May 2.
Military commanders take action on complaints of religious harassment "based on the gravity of occurrence on a case by case basis," he said in a statement.
Christensen said the Defense Department works to ensure that service members are free to practice their religion "in a manner that is respectful of other individuals' rights to follow their own belief systems; and in ways that are conducive to good order and discipline."