WW1 British BEF Common Prayer Book

The WW1 British BEF Common Prayer Book is an original issue provided to members of the British Expeditionary Force during the First World War. This pocket-sized volume contains the liturgy and prayers from the Book of Common Prayer, tailored for use by soldiers on active service. Typically bound in cloth or leather, these books were designed for durability and portability in field conditions. They include prayers specific to the challenges faced during wartime, such as prayers for those in peril, the wounded, the fallen, and for victory. The inclusion of such prayer books was standard practice in military kit, reflecting the importance placed on spiritual support and morale among British troops. Many copies display service-related markings, inscriptions, or stamps. The WW1 BEF Common Prayer Book serves as a representative artifact of the personal items carried by soldiers during the conflict and provides insight into the daily life and spiritual practices of British forces during World War I.