Chaplains have been present in the armies of France since the 8th century. Since the law of July 8, 1880, in addition to Jewish and Protestant chaplaincies, the presence of a Catholic military chaplaincy allows chaplains to join the armies and wear the uniform. In 1986, Pope John Paul II attached the chaplains to their bishop in the armed forces, with the agreement of the French government. Saint-Louis des Invalides constitutes the cathedral of the diocese. More than 200 priests, deacons, or lay people, men or women, provide moral support in all of the French army's operations areas.