The Christian Commission is a United States nonprofit organization dedicated to social and religious support, historically known for its role during the American Civil War. The organization was established in 1861 in New York City, initially to provide supplies, medical services, and religious literature to Union troops. It was formed through the collaboration of Protestant ministers and the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) with the goal of improving the moral and spiritual lives of soldiers.

Throughout the Civil War, the Christian Commission operated as a civilian body of volunteers, including seminary students and concerned Christians, who served as delegates without bearing arms. Their efforts extended beyond spiritual support to include distributing goods and necessities such as clothing, medical supplies, and reading materials to soldiers in camps, hospitals, and prisons. The organization also promoted literacy by providing magazines and newspapers, and it established reading rooms in permanent camps to uplift the soldiers’ morale.

The Christian Commission worked closely with the U.S. Sanitary Commission and military authorities, ensuring that wounded or dying soldiers received both physical aid and spiritual comfort. They were notably active after major battles such as Bull Run, Antietam, and Gettysburg, where they helped manage the overwhelming aftermath by providing medical assistance and religious consolation. Their presence at these sites included converting local buildings into operational headquarters and hospital support centers.

Volunteers of the Christian Commission also organized worship services, distributed religious tracts and Testaments, and acted as nurses in hospitals. The organization’s mission was supported by a broad network of chapters across major northern cities, backed by men, women, and children who contributed donations, money, and goods to sustain their work.

The Christian Commission’s efforts represented an early form of organized chaplaincy and social service within the military context, addressing both the physical and intangible needs of Union soldiers during one of the most tumultuous periods in American history.

The organization continues its mission under the name Christian Commission, maintaining a commitment to faith-based community and humanitarian support in the modern era.

Summary of Key Aspects

This summary reflects the historical and ongoing nature of the Christian Commission as a faith-based nonprofit organization dedicated to service and support in both military and community contexts.