Assessing Best Practices of Facilitation of the Free Exercise of Religion by Army Chaplains Utilizing the Success Case Method

This mixed-methods study examined how U.S. Army chaplains experience and facilitate the free exercise of religion. The research explored compelling narratives of best-case facilitation experiences, identified leadership qualities associated with successful religious support, and analyzed similarities and differences between best and worst-case scenarios. Using Brinkerhoff's Success Case Method, the study distributed a quantitative survey to 1,478 active-duty chaplains (achieving a 23% response rate) followed by twelve guided interviews with participants representing diverse ranks and faith traditions. The research revealed six major themes: significant gaps in education for pluralistic ministry, tension between personal religious convictions and professional duties, crucial impact of leadership on religious support culture, importance of proactive support approaches, systemic challenges in standardization and resource allocation, and transformation of understanding through direct experience. Analysis employed multiple theoretical frameworks, including Socio-Technical Systems Theory, Open Systems Theory, and Schein's organizational culture model. Findings indicate that successful religious support requires comprehensive education, psychologically safe environments for dialogue, standardized processes, and intentional leader development. The study demonstrates how chaplains navigate supporting diverse faiths while maintaining religious integrity, often experiencing significant personal transformation through engagement with service members. The research contributes to understanding how religious professionals balance personal convictions with institutional requirements in pluralistic settings.