Chaplaincy Program Lesson 3 by Rev. Murman

Chaplaincy Program

Lesson 3 – Overview of Skills, Qualifications, and Training

By: Trent Murman

 

Do a self-evaluation of your present skills:

I have good listening skills and an analytical mind.  Always ready to offer help to anyone that asks for it or is in need of it but is ashamed to ask for the help.   I am kind and considerate of others feelings and the need for them to keep a good positive image or self esteem.

Write a short plan of how you will seek to improve.

I do need to continuously keep and learn where to guide people to outside agencies for more complete help with problems.  After being a good listener, I feel it is important not to necessarily solve the problem for them but to assist them in coming to a conclusion or directing them to the proper agency for further help.

Research your religion's [or denomination] qualifications for the chaplaincy:

The applicant must be:

1. An ordained minister
2. A citizen of the United States for active duty [if military]; have a Green Card for Reserve or National Guard
3. At time of appointment:  Normally under age 42 but waivers may be available. Check with the branch of service you're applying to. Adjustments may be considered for prior military service.
4. Able to receive a favorable National Security Agency clearance.
5. Physically qualified. (Military branches of service may differ).
6. A graduate with 120 semester hours of undergraduate credit and 72 semester hours of accredited graduate or theological studies with a Master of Divinity degree or equivalency. This is the military minimum but most Presbyterian denominations require more for ordination.

The Ecclesiastical Endorsement Process

Every chaplain within the Armed Forces, the VA Service, and CAP must possess an Ecclesiastical Endorsement. It is the certification which permits the chaplain to minister in the name of the parent denomination. Furthermore, the Ecclesiastical Endorsement is the authentication by the denomination that the prospective chaplain is not only in good standing with the ordaining body, but is a person highly qualified to serve as a chaplain. For Presbyterian chaplains, it is granted by the Presbyterian Council only after an application process, very careful consideration, and a personal interview.

If application to the Armed Forces is made for a chaplain commission but the Ecclesiastical Endorsement is not granted by the Council, the military application will not be approved, and will be returned without action.