Chaplaincy endorsement opens ministry opportunities outside the church.

» Ecclesiastical Endorsement

Ecclesiastical endorsement is the written acknowledgement by a faith group/denomination that an individual is in good standing and meets the qualifications for clergy credentials with their faith group/denomination. Generally speaking, major institutions, federal/state correctional systems, and healthcare facilities require that chaplains and pastoral counselors have the endorsement of their respective faith group/denomination. To receive an application, please email [email protected].

ADVANCED CHAPLAINCY ENDORSEMENT

  • Ordination
  • 2 years pastoral experience
  • MDIV (or its equivalent) with an institution accredited with the Association of Theological Schools (ATS)
  • 4 Units of CPE preferred, amount determined by hiring agency
  • Active, full-time paid chaplaincy position
  • Eligible for certification with a professional organization
  • References including one from their District
  • Background check
  • Credit check
  • Approval by Endorser
  • Interview with the Commission on Chaplains

STANDARD CHAPLAINCY ENDORSEMENT

  • Ordination
  • 2 years pastoral experience
  • Education as required by hiring agency
  • CPE as required by hiring agency
  • Be an active, paid chaplain working full or part time in a chaplaincy ministry.
  • References including one from their District
  • Background check
  • Credit check
  • Approval by Endorser
  • Interview with the Commission on Chaplains

BASIC CHAPLAINCY ENDORSEMENT

  • Certified or higher level of credentials
  • Ministry experience
  • Education as required by hiring agency
  • References including one from their District
  • Background check
  • Credit check
  • Personal interview with a representative of the Department
  • Approval given by endorser
  • Ratification by the Commission on Chaplains

ASSOCIATE CHAPLAIN RECOGNITION

  • Church level credentials
  • References including one from their pastor
  • Associate Chaplaincy application
  • Education as required by hiring agency
  • Background check
  • Credit check
  • Personal interview with a representative of the Department
  • Approval given by endorser
  • Ratification by Commission on Chaplains