During the Second World War, approximately 1,000 Christian chaplains served in the German military, providing spiritual support to soldiers in the midst of the conflict. Among them, a significant portion were Catholic priests, who played a critical role in providing faith-based guidance and comfort on the battlefield. This Catholic Chaplain’s Cross would have been worn by these clergy, symbolising their role as spiritual leaders in the German Army.
Key Features
Measures 4cm x 6cm in size.
Constructed from nickel with an antique silver-tone finish.
Features a detailed raised figure on a bold, bevelled-edge cross.
Includes a 78cm, silver-finished chain.
The reverse features the maker's mark of 'Deschler & Sohn,' the original manufacturers of these crosses during the war.
Description
Catholic chaplains in the German Army were tasked with offering spiritual care and maintaining morale among soldiers, performing religious services, administering sacraments and offering counsel in the face of the atrocities of war. In 1939, Catholics made up 41% of the population in Germany, and Catholic clergy played an essential role in the lives of soldiers. Despite the Nazi regime’s increasingly hostile stance toward religious institutions, these chaplains continued their duties
Worn widely by members of the clergy during World War 2, this Catholic Chaplain's Cross served not only as a badge of service but also as a representation of their spiritual commitment to the soldiers they served. The cross features a raised figure of Christ on a bold, bevelled-edge and comes complete with a 78cm, silver-finished, aluminium chain. Alongside this, the cross includes a ‘Deschler & Sohn’ mark on the reverse linking it to one of the most well-known manufacturers of military insignia during the Third Reich.
Perfect for collectors, reenactors and history enthusiasts!
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