April Moon's personal charity supports the training of Military Chaplains for the United States
Armed Forces.
How to Become a Chaplain
Through an exciting and varied pastoral ministry, chaplains are the visible reminder of the holy. It is
the most unique spiritual opportunity that is often more enhancing than one would ever expect.
Currently, there are over 500 active duty Air Force chaplains and nearly 600 in service with the Reserves
and Air National Guard. Each chaplain is endorsed by his or her own religious group and remains faithful to the
tenets of that body. Chaplains also offer a broadly based ministry aimed at meeting the diverse pastoral needs
of the pluralistic military community. Active duty and Reserve chaplains are responsible for supporting both
directly and indirectly the free exercise of religion for all members of the Military Services, their dependents,
and other authorized persons. (Referenced from DOD 1304.19)
Navy Chaplain employment involves helping sea-service personnel negotiate the crucial moments in
their lives. Members of the clergy provide moral support for young people away from home for the first time,
lend advice to individuals facing personal or emotional difficulties, and provide spiritual assistance to people
from all walks of life.
Requirements
- Ecclesiastical Endorsement, DD Form 2088 (May 2006).
- Baccalaureate degree with no fewer than 120 hours from an accredited institution.
- Post-Baccalaureate degree in the field of theology or related studies from a qualifying graduate degree
program with no less than 72 Semester Hours from an accredited institution.
- Two years of religious leadership experience.
- Must enter active duty (EAD) prior to 42.
- Commissioned officers must be the grade of Captain (0-3) and below.
- Be within military height and weight standards.
- Meet qualifying standards for a Commissioning physical.
- Pass Background Security Investigation.
- Satisfy all appropriate commissioning requirements.
- United States Citizenship (No Dual Citizenship).
Navy Chaplains serve on ships and at foreign and domestic bases throughout various Navy, Marine Corps
and Coast Guard commands. Responsibilities associated with Navy Chaplain jobs may include:
- Conduct worship services in a variety of settings
- Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings and funeral services
- Counsel individuals who seek guidance
- Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups
- Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members
- Train lay leaders who conduct religious education programs
- Promote attendance at religious services, retreats, and conferences
Earn While You Learn
Opportunities abound for continuing education and training throughout the course of your Navy Chaplain
employment. Many continue their education by attending one of the military service colleges to study military
strategies, tactics, and joint operations with other branches of the armed forces. As an Officer, the Naval
Postgraduate School in Monterey, California is also an attractive tour of duty option that allows you to earn
a master's or doctoral degree while being paid full-time as a Naval Officer. Other opportunities offered through
a Navy Chaplain career include supervision in clinical pastoral education and tuition assistance for numerous
off-duty educational programs.
Special Pay/BonusesFringe benefits include free and low-cost travel, 30 days paid vacation every year,
Officer status, and the use of Officers' Clubs and recreation facilities. The Navy also offers Chaplains a
generous retirement program and full family benefits as well as tax-free on-base shopping privileges.
Skills and Training
Navy Chaplain jobs draw clergy from over 100 denominations and faith groups.
Chaplains attend the Navy Chaplain School in Newport, Rhode Island for a basic orientation course.
Aspiring Chaplain careers: The Navy also has a Chaplain Candidate Program Officer (CCPO) Program
for seminary students who might be interested in obtaining a commission before completing their graduate
studies. The CCPO program offers significant pay advantages once a Chaplain enters active duty. The program
also includes on-the-job training under the direct supervision of an active duty Chaplain.
Career Outlook
The Chaplain Corps is a high-profile community where you'll have the opportunity to practice a full scope
of religious ministry. In addition to the excellent training and preparation in religious and administrative
positions that Chaplain employment provides, you will also have the chance to see many places and meet
many people you'll remember for the rest of your life.
