From Gettysburg to Korea, Catholic military chaplains have brought Christ’s presence to America’s servicemen and women in war, sacrifice, and service. Shepherds amid the carnage of the Civil WarThe role of Catholic chaplains took a significant turn during the Civil War. As Irish and German Catholic immigration dramatically increased the nation’s Catholic population, thousands of Catholic soldiers filled the ranks of both Union and Confederate armies. More than 100 Catholic priests served officially as military chaplains during the conflict, while many others ministered informally in hospitals and camps. Still serving those who serveThe work of Catholic military chaplains continues today.