Letters, 1943

Containers:

Box 1, Folder 1

Scope and content:

Scope and Contents Includes primarily letters from Temporary Duty Tour at Naval Receiving Station at nearby Newport News, VA. This two-week assignment was a component of the Chaplain's School program that allowed students the opportunity to observe and assist experienced chaplains. The Receiving Station to which Cunningham was assigned was used to form crews for new ships that were being built. Few permanent personnel were stationed there and there was no chaplain. Cunningham, a Methodist minister in civilian life, describes himself as a "pioneer" there. No Protestant services had been held at the Station for months. Worship services were conducted in the same auditorium used to show movies at night and where lectures for the men were held during the day (Cunningham mentions one lecture on venereal prophylaxis). Cunningham draws up plans for some equipment to be used for worship - a reredos, altar, cross and lectern. A Chaplain's Aid was provided to serve as a musical accompanist during worship services. This Aid was also a student at the Naval Training School (NTS) at William and Mary. Cunningham notes that there were "quite a number" of these men being trained there. He explains that an Aid must have a college degree, be able to play the piano, know vocal music in order to direct choruses, and be able to type. Cunningham's routine at the Receiving Station includes daily visits to the "Sick Bay." He observes that "most of the patients are there because of their own moral laxity." He comments that "[t]he job of keeping men clean and decent in this mess is a big one! The navy is only interested in keeping them efficient – though it does try to provide entertainment and religious influences." On the same note, he quotes from a lecture given by a Catholic chaplain at the NTS: "The navy is neutral on the question of liquor – it's your business." Before he completes his assignment at the Receiving Station, Cunningham makes a trip to a large base nearby to get testaments and worship helps as well as tracts to distribute to the men. He commends the Navy for covering the expense of these items: "Thus the Navy shows its concern for the Spiritual welfare of its men. The Chaplain really gets cooperation."

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