The Army chaplain candidate program

Hi guys. Is there an age cut-off for the program? A waiver process? I’m a 42 year-old OIF vet, 04, 11B/38A.

Thanks,

tomk

I’m Chaplain (CPT) Paul Douglas and if you live in the states of Georgia, Kentucky, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, or Alabama please contact me for information regarding a rewarding career in the Army National Guard chaplaincy. I recruit for the chaplain candidate program as well as the chaplain program for the Army national Guard. Take a look at all the Guard has to offer…you would be surprised!

My email is paul.n.douglas@us.army.mil and my cell number is 478-697-8308. Enjoy the benefits of military ministry and pursue your vocational ministry as well. The Army National Guard has infantry, armor, military police, and many other combat arms battalions that need chalains. Likewise, there are various combat support battalions as well. Give me a call and let’s get started.

Coming to your campus or area soon! Thanks for the post Father Sparks!

The chaplain candidate program in the Army National Guard has distinctive benefits. The $4500.00 tution reimbursement is available as is the ability to earn pay for your once per month drill and two week annual training period.

The accessions process is now streamlined in the Army National Guard and chaplains handle your paperwork from start to finish.

You can drill in a location that is near you while you concentrate on school. Similarly, you can “shadow” other chaplains in your state while in candidate status to learn firsthand what the chaplain mission is all about.

You will be with soldiers both during drill and during your two weeks annual training (in the field). You will be in uniform and involved. There are currently openings in your area for infantry, armor, and other combat arms battalions as well as combat support elements.

The Chaplain Candidate and Chaplain program of the Army National Guard wants you! Call Chaplain (CPT) Paul Douglas (Recruiter) at 478-697-8308 for more details. Or drop me an email at paul.n.douglas@us.army.mil and I’ll get your paperwork started or call you on my dime to answer your questions.

As always, thanks for the post Father Sparks!

CH (CPT) Paul Douglas
Chaplain Recruiter
Army National Guard

Is it possible to be enrolled as a chaplain cantidate while attending a foreign university/seminary?

SGT Green,
I’m the regional chaplain accessions manager for NGB. Call me on my cell (478-697-8308) and I’d be glad to provide you with more informaton.

SGT Green, I recommend that you do call Chaplain Douglas about this. You might also read my article concerning enlisted soldiers becoming chaplains. From the information you’ve shared, the most important thing you should do is determine where you are in completing your undergraduate degree. If you are a long way off, this may limit your options; if you are close, you could be in the candidate program very soon.

The Army National Guard candidate program allows up to 6 years for completion of your seminary degree. There is also a new benefit available in the form of a $20,000 student loan repayment that can be used in tandem with the tution reimbursement option. I’d be glad to tell you more if you would call me at 478-697-8308.

Luke,
No, I’m afraid not. Similarly, in addition to the $4500.00 per year tuition reimbursement, there are some state-based educational benefits available for National Guard memebers. For example, some states have programs through the Guard that will absorb tuition and or books, etc. There are also scholarships available in many states for Guard members that could be used for other education related costs.

CH (CPT) Paul Douglas
Chaplain Accessions

Stephen,
I am a regional accessions manager for the National Guard Chaplaincy program and I work at NGB. The process is pretty simple and you’ll be interested in some recent developments with regard to tuition assistance and loan repayment benefits. Why don’t you call me and let’s get you squared away. 478-697-8308 my email is paul.n.douglas@us.army.mil.

Blessings!

SGT Yanquoi,
If active duty is your goal I have two friends that are USAREC (active duty and reserve)Chaplain recruiters and they would be glad to speak with you. Do you live in VA or elsewhere? Drop me an email at paul.n.douglas@us.army.mil and I’ll be glad to give you the correct POC info (depending where you live).

Blessings,
CH (CPT) Paul Douglas
ARNG Chaplain Recruiter

Father Daniel -

I sent you an email with questions on behalf of my son who is a graduating HS Senior who believes he is being called to be a Chaplain in the US Army. I realize you are on active duty right now so understand if you can’t get back to me very soon, but he needs some help and advice.

I am praying for you and your men.

I have been involved in youth ministry for about 8 yrs. Plan on enrolling in seminary this fall. Anyone know how competitive it is to become a coast guard chaplain? This website has peaked my interest in being an Army Chaplain. We’ll see how it goes. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
kumcyouth@bellsouth.net
Oh, I am in Tennessee.

Shawn, I believe what the recruiter told you to be accurate. However, I suggest you contact Chaplain Paul Douglas (a chaplain recruiter) for assistance with this matter. It is something that would probably require a waiver, and a chaplain recruiter is likely one of the few people who can help you get the correct info.

Email for CH (CPT) Douglas: paul.n.douglas@us.army.mil

I am graduating Central Bible College in Springfield, MO, and desire to enter the chaplain candidate program as I enter the Assemblies of God Theological Seminary to get my MDIV. The army web page seemed to say that I must be in the chaplaincy prior to my seminary graduation for four years, before I receive my benefits. Is this so? And for my practicum, could I choose the Installation I serve at, such as Fort Campbell?

thanks!

Tony, I’m not sure what you mean by “receive my benefits”; what kind of benefits are you referring to? Once a person is accessioned as a chaplain, he is given all the benefits of an officer upon assuming that appointment. Can you refer me to the specific page which you read this from? I’ll try to give you a better answer.

As for practicums, yes, you can generally choose which installation you train at, with some caveats. You can only go to an installation where there are practicum slots, and you can only go to an installation where practicum slots have not already been filled by other candidates. Each year, the Chaplain Candidate Manager will publish a list of practicum slots. You should review this list as early as possible and submit your request for a practicum as early as possible (and follow up to make sure your paperwork was processed!).

Practicum slots are not always cut and dried. Almost all practicums will be assigned from the list, but there may be some last minute slots available that don’t show up on the list. Also, if there is somewhere you want to go that isn’t on the list, contact the Chaplain Candidate Manager to discuss it. There may be an opportunity for you to participate in an unlisted practicum.

On another matter, I note that many training conferences and classes are now open to chaplain candidates. See the monthly Chief of Chaplains newsletter for a list of these opportunities. When I was a candidate, these training events were not available to me; the Chief’s office is working hard to integrate chaplain candidates as much as possible so that they can gain valuable experience prior to their appointments as chaplains.

Hello, I am interested in joining the Alabama National Guard as a Chaplain. i served before while in an R.O.T. C program. I am a graduate from a Seminary program.
my phone number is (404) 242-9652.
I am also 42 years old.
Thank you,
Allen

I am a former Signal Officer (CPT-ETS AD on NOV 05), and currently have about 18 mos. left on my IRR obligation. Currently, I am a law enforcement officer in the Richmond, VA area. If I decide to pursue a career as an Army Chaplain, and begin my Master’s in Divinity, what would be my best option to do so? I may eventually prefer to go back to active duty if I become a Chaplain, but the ARNG and USAR funds would obviously help while in seminary.

Any assistance with this matter would be greatly appreciated. Further, if any Chaplain recruiters in my area read this, I would appreciate your contact information.

CH Douglas,

Is there a service length requirement in the ARNG prior to going active duty if one chooses to do so following seminary graduation? In other words, must one serve X amount of years in the ARNG prior to going active duty if s/he chooses to do so following completion of seminary and the chaplain candidate program?

Thanking you in advance,
Nick

CH (CPT) Paul Douglas-

I thank you for all the information regarding the difference between Reserve and Guard Chaplain Candidate Programs. I was unable to find it anywhere else on the web. I am currently waiting for my orders from HRC in St. Louis and do intend on making the switch from Reserve to the National Guard in Massachusetts. Thank you again.

-James M. Hairston

PS – Fr. Daniel, thank you for this site. God Bless you!

The Army has a program similar to that for JAG officers–the chaplain candidate program. Read this article (and the rest of the series) to learn more about it.

I suggest that, for your upcoming deployment, you get close to your chaplain to learn more about what ministry is like.

If you have any specific questions, please feel free to email me or leave comments on the site.

My name is CH Dave Bowlus, Chaplain Recruiter for USAR candidate program, USAR chaplaincy, and Active Duty chaplaincy. If you have specific questions about the CC program or applying to the chaplaincy, please call me at 301-677-3976. It seemed as thought the bulk of the conversation was a bit ARNG heavy, so I would like to offer my assistance for those needing answers about the USAR. We are ONE ARMY and BOTH programs offer huge incentives and are very rewarding if one plans on one day serving as a chaplain.

I would like to make a clarification to an above comment. If a chaplain candidate enters a component (ARNG or USAR) and receives monetary incentives (ie TA, education bonus, etc), they are obligated to serve in that component for four years to “pay back” that obligation. For example, if I am a USAR CC and recieve TA (even $1), I incur an obligation to serve as a chaplain in that component before going AD. I say this to clear up some misperceptions about applying for AD after receiving TA or other incentives offered by other components.

I welcome any comments or further questions!!

Blessings,
CH Dave Bowlus
301-677-3976
david.bowlus@usarec.army.mil
“Here I Am! Send Me!”
Rangers Lead the Way!

Reply for Josh Conners (item #40)

Josh! Go Army, Beat Navy! I’m a USMA grad (1993, E-2,E-3) too and an Army Chaplain. If you have further questions about the Reserve candidate program, please call me 301-677-3976.

Blessings,
CH (MAJ) Dave Bowlus

Hayden, if you are unable to maintain the basic physical fitness of the Army, you will not be able to serve. If you cannot meet that requirement now, you need not be discouraged, however; there is training you can do before you go to the Chaplain School and training that you will receive at the schoolhouse that will prepare you physically.

How long will you be deployed? That can vary, but generally, Reserve and Guard units are deployed for 12 months. How often will you deploy? That’s another story altogether, and one that doesn’t have an easy answer. The goal of DA right now is to decrease the number of deployments for Reserve and Guard soldiers. However, with current troop requirements, it is hard to do.

Army chaplains are pastors. Just as a civilian pastor has a congregation, an Army chaplain has a congregation. For the chaplain, that congregation is his unit. Chaplains aren’t travelling evangelists or motivational speakers. Sure, there are some occasional opportunities for this with certain chaplains who have attained higher rank over time and have become known for their ministry gifts and dedication. However, battalion chaplains don’t hop from one location to another to present programs to various units. Instead, they focus on meeting the needs of their parishioners–the soldiers in their battalion.

There are other opportunities for chaplains to minister. For example, there are retreats and programs that may be coordinated with other units or on military installations. There are also chapel services and chapel-sponsored events. Yes, you could theoretically use your strength gifts in ministering in these types of programs.

But, again, the function of a chaplain is to pastor, on a day by day basis, the several hundred soldiers who make up his flock. That is what distinguishes the ministry of chaplains: ministers who go wherever their congregation goes–from Sunday morning service to working on trucks, from Bible study to cleaning toilets, from prayer meeting to being shot at, from pastoral counselling to the 130-degree heat and dust of Baghdad. While a chaplain’s mode of ministry may sometimes seem a lot like that of a circuit rider, he isn’t a travelling salesman. I think this constant participation in the life of soldiers is a part of what it means to be a servant, as Christ taught.

I don’t mean to suggest that your ministry is superficial or insincere. Instead, I encourage you to consider the fact that the model of ministry that you currently have will not work in the military. If you are so compelled to military ministry that you wish to embrace the Army method of pastoral ministry, then you should definitely pursue the chaplaincy. If you do not find yourself motivated toward committing to a single flock of young men and women for a few years at a time, then you should probably continue in your current ministry without seeking to become a chaplain.

I hope this is helpful, and I pray that you will be led by the Holy Spirit of God in the way that will bring honor to his name.

Jason, yes, there are opportunities for Airborne school and Air Assault school. You may attend Airborne school as a chaplain candidate. You may attend Air Assault school as a chaplain, with permission of your chain of command.

As a chaplain candidate, you may participate in a 75-day CPE course. This is equivalent to one credit of CPE. As a chaplain, you may participate in a CPE or continue CPE training begun as a candidate. CPE participants are selected by a board because of limited slots.

These opportunities generally are the same for regular Army, USAR, and USARNG. If you are a USAR or USARNG chaplain or candidate, participation will depend upon availability of funds.

Dave, to serve as an AD chaplain, you must be able to complete 10 years of active federal service at the time of accessioning. In other words, you must be able to complete 10 years of service as a chaplain before hitting your mandatory retirement date. There are also age restrictions; with prior service, you must be accessioned to AD as a chaplain prior to age 44.

For everyones information:

I am willing to become a full time Chaplain. Here is what I have: Age 43, MBA, currently on active duty as enlisted with 9.5 years of service. I was once commissioned a 2LT in the Reserves.

John

Thanks Fr. Sparks
All the information about chaplaincy the site contains are much better than those of the Army’s site.
I’m a full time local pastor in a United Methodist Church in OR. I’m serving in my 2nd year and graduated from a seminary last year. I’ve been interested in being an army chapain for years. However, due to my immigrant status, I’m a permanent resident, I’m not eligible for AD chaplain, so thinking to join in Reserve Army. Is it possible to serve as a full-time reserve chaplain?

Can a chaplain candidate go to Ranger school? Thanks for the info.

And by the way, what is the protocol for the army paying for a Ph.D. degree for chaplains? Can it be done at a school in Europe? Thanks so much.

Daniel,

Greetings! You may remember me – CH Bowen. Came across this website and was happy to see your face. It seems like it was just yesterday when you were shadowing me at Fort Rucker when you were a candidate. Hope you are doing well – I don’t miss the Army a bit

Take care,
Scott

I currently been approved for the CC program in the Army Reserve. I am wondering about the strings attached to the Tuition Assistance offered throught he reserve. I know that if I take money from the Reserve I have to serve in the Reserve after I assess as a chaplain. However, what happens if I choose to go AD after graduation? Is this not an option or can I geta waiver? What happens? Any advice would be appreciated. . .please contact me via e-mail.

Brian,

The requirements are:
Possess a graduate-level degree in religious and theological studies of at least 72 hours, 36 of which must be theology based.

These are the requirements of the Army. There are some Endorsing Agencies that adhere to these requirements and some that require the MDiv Degree, check with your endorser to see what they require.

If you have any questions, give me a call

CH(CPT) Scott R Ehler
NGB Regional Chaplain Recruiter
(770) 363-0253

I am a 39 year old, active duty 14Z MSG with 18.5 years in service. I have already graduated from USASMA but have elected not to compete for SGM. I am teaching ROTC MIL SCIENCE in NY and the Lord has called me into ministry therefore I will depart into full time ministry at the end of this assignment. I earned a BS from Liberty University this year (in March I finish my last two classes) and begin matriculation at Liberty Theological Seminary in April. Coming home from work tonight Army Chaplaincy crossed my mind and it’s got my attention, although this is not something that I had considered before. Am I eligible?

CDT Dunklee,

Give me a call and we can talk about your questions.

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
(770) 363-0253

I am a 38 year old female. I have my bachelors – graduated Cum Laude in 1997 – and after much prayer and soul searching I am ready to enroll in Liberty University’s graduate program for chaplaincy. Am I too old to qualify for the Chaplain Candidate Program or to become a chaplain in the army? I noticed that there was an age limit of 42 years. This will help me determine which graduate program will be my best choice.

Thanks for your help.

Brooke Larson
Shoreline, WA
206-508-2800

Brooke,

To enter the Chaplain Candidate Program you must have a Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited University of at least 120 hours. You must be enrolled full-time in an accredited seminary (Liberty is). The age limit is through your 42 year, but before your 43rd birthday. Please give me a call if you have any questions. I can put you in touch with the recruiter in your area.

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
(770) 363-0253

Hello my name is CW2 Hampton and I am currently serving in Iraq. I am a licensed minister and serve as the assistant pastor here. I am currently enrolled with Liberty University and should finish my BA within the next year. I just need some guidance on how to become a Army Chaplain ( AGR,active, etc). I am 32 years old and have been on active duty for 13 years.

V/R

Anthony

Hello all,
This website is just what I’m looking for, it took me a while but I’m glad I found it.
Here’s my story. I’m an E5 with a few months left on active duty, with a bachelors degree, and I would like to become a chaplain. I meet all the standard officer requirements, but I do not have the graduate degree needed, and I’m looking for information about ROTC, Green to Gold, etc. Essentially, I don’t have too much money, so I’m wondering if there is a program out there that will pay for my masters degree, and pay me while I’m on active duty. Something similar is out there for Soldiers looking to get a bachelors degree and become an officer, I’m just not sure if it’s out there for a situation like mine. Unfortunately I’m on a small post, Natick, MA, it’s about a square mile, and there isn’t anyone here who can answer this question. Any input would be greatly appreciated, you can contact me at mike.stepien@hotmail.com. Thanks, SGT Mike Stepien

Chaplain Sparks,

It is a blessing to see your ministry on this website to those seeking Chaplain Candidate program possibilities. Congratulations on your recent deployment and return.

In what ways did you practicum time at Fort Rucker prepare you for active duty ministry?

Now that you have been deployed and returned, what suggestions would you give to those overseeing practicums of our Chaplain Candidates?

Very respectfully,

Chaplain Barry Bowden

I had a quick question about medical requirements. I have been accepted to seminary and am working on my paperwork for the Candidate program. I had meningitis when I was a young boy and it left me deaf in my left ear. However, no one notices it, and it doesn’t cause any impedement day to day. Most people never know unless I tell them.

Will this be disqualifying, and if so, will I be able to obtain a waiver?

God Bless,

John

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I’m currently going through the process right now to become a chaplain candidate, and I was curious about something. I was told that when I became a chaplain after I finished seminary they would repay 30k in student loans. My question was can I take the tuition assistance and then use the loan repayment as well? Also what qualifies? Could I take out a student loan to help pay for living expenses and then have that repayed? Thank you very much for your help!

PFC Blair, you will not be able to put in a chaplain candidate packet until you are in your last semester of college AND have already applied to seminary AND have an acceptance letter from the seminary for enrollment in the next calendar semester. If you are at this place in your studies, and you do not want to leave active duty at this time, you should NOT apply to the chaplain candidate program because you will leave active duty for the Reserve. Instead, forget the candidate program for now, and continue seminary by distance learning (many recommend Liberty University’s programs, for example). When you are in your last semester of seminary, apply to the candidate program. Then you can leave active duty to fulfill your pastoral ministry experience. After at least two years of civilian ministry experience (more if your denomination requires), you could then return to active duty as a chaplain.

CH Bowden, I’m sorry for my long delay in replying. Thanks for your comment. I still remember fondly my short time of training at Fort Rucker. It prepared me for active duty chaplaincy in ways nothing else could. It is my understanding that you will be completing your time there soon; I’m not sure if you’re retiring or moving to another position, but I wish you the best wherever you go–and I’m sure you will continue to be an inspiring and thoughtful leader whatever you undertake.

The practicum at Fort Rucker prepared me for active duty in several ways. First, and most importantly, I was allowed to step up to the full plate of active duty ministry. Whether it was preaching, counselling, actively participating in meetings, planning, or leading field services, the UMTs at Rucker made sure I was fully engaged. The fact that I was already ordained and received accession orders for active duty while I was there surely had some bearing on this, but I believe that the Rucker UMTs know how to use chaplain candidates more than any other installation I’ve been to or know of. It is a shame that, in times past, Rucker did not fill all its slots for candidate training. I am convinced that it is the biggest chaplain candidate training secret in the Army.

Second, I was also challenged in the administrative areas of ministry. I prepared an abbreviated mock CMRP and actually briefed it to a battalion commander. I prepared my own OER support form and was able to receive constructive and meaningful feedback on it. I was placed in charge of planning and executing a special holy day service. These and other things like them helped me see the staffing side of ministry as a chaplain. It helps to see that the administrative tasks are directly related to the interpersonal tasks of ministry.

I was grateful that I didn’t have to sit in an office staring at the walls while a chaplain checked his email or counselled while I waited. From my previous experience, too much chaplain candidate time is spent doing this instead of productive training. No chaplain has time to sit in his office doing nothing (at least no competent chaplain does), and candidates do not need training in this. I know it is a difficult thing to provide meaningful training for candidates that uses their time most efficiently and not having too much down time between tasks. The UMTs at Rucker managed to tackle this with efficiency. I was allowed to move between UMTs to where I could minister at the moment. This allowed me to see a broad perspective of ministry but it did not mean that I simply shuffled from one chaplain to another while really learning nothing. Being shuffled from one UMT to another often produces candidate training that is a mile wide and an inch deep; Rucker did not have this problem.

Finally, the ride in the helicopter was great. What more can I say? Gator-spotting is an opportunity every chaplain candidate should have.

How should candidate practicums be planned in anticipation of deployment? I recommend that more emphasis be given to ministry to the sick and dying. I received some of this at Fort Knox in 2003, thankfully, and I believe it prepared me for Iraq in some way. The only other thing I can suggest is that the candidate supervisors find some way for the candidates to become assimilated as much as possible with battalion-level ministry; set the candidate up so that he can build relationships with Soldiers–this is the only way he can begin to know what they deal with on a daily basis and the only way that he will experience the trust Soldiers have in an effective chaplain, and it will allow him to do some real, hands-on military ministry. Oh, one more thing: as you did at Rucker, make sure the candidate has to serve time on the duty roster for at least a couple of days.

Thanks again for a wonderful experience. Because of your kindness, effective leadership, and the camaraderie of all the UMTs at Fort Rucker, I am a better pastor to my Soldiers. Because of your investment in training me, I have been able to minister at gut level with my Soldiers in Iraq and in garrison. I still have Rucker on my dream list; maybe the Lord will tell the Army to send me there someday.

Marshall, there are age waivers available for prior service applicants. However, I believe that, because you have more than 16 years of prior service, the age waiver does not apply. This is based on my cursory reading of the current waiver policies, and my understanding could be incorrect.

I am emailing you two files from the Chief of Chaplains; these files address the conditions for waivers. You should thoroughly review these documents, and then call your regional chaplain recruiter to discuss them with him. Ask him if one of the waiver situations would work for you.

AGR chaplain slots are governed by the same rules as Reserve slots. While there is more leniency for RC than for AD, I don’t think there will be a significant enough difference in your case. All of the AGR chaplain slots that I know about are for experienced chaplains, not new chaplains. There may be some out there that are different, but you shouldn’t expect to be able to get one of these slots as a new chaplain.

Father Sparks,
I’m off for Nashotah House in August and will be commissioned a Chaplain Candidate in September in the WIARNG. My question is, upon graduation and ordination may I immediately apply for active duty, or must there be a 2 yr pastoral period before I can become an actual Chaplain? Also, I will be going through the Anglican Province of America, should you know if they too may have any requirements regarding the chaplaincy.
Finally, what is the current status of your devotional?
In Hoc SIgno Vinces.

Matthew, the devotional is at the printer and should be in hand within two weeks. Sorry for the exceptional delays.

Good luck with seminary and the candidate program. The Army wants 2 years of post-seminary, post-ordination ministry experience. In some cases, OCCH will grant waivers; however, this requires your church to sign off on it. In my case, which was very unusual, I had a break in seminary of 2 1/2 years; I only needed 2 Hebrew classes to finish my degree. The bishop ordained me, and I served in the priesthood prior to finally receiving my degree. After receiving my degree and later applying for AD, I had over 3 years of ordained ministry completed. OCCH granted me a waiver on this (because I did not have at least 2 years of post-seminary ministry) but my endorser was required to state in the DD2088 that he was aware of and approved of this.

I do not know what the APA position is on this. You should talk with the APA endorser about it. In my experience, endorsers are very reluctant to approve it in advance, but will consider it on a case-by-case basis after the fact.

On another issue, if you want to accession to AD, make sure you know ahead of time what is your obligation to the WIARNG. For example, if you are locked into 6 years in the Guard, but you want to go AD in 4, you may not necessarily be released to do so. Most of the time, Guard units will work hard to make it happen, but there are no guarantees, and the process is usually slow because it requires coordination between AD and RC.

Dear Fr. Sparks:

I am writing this to ask for some advice. (I am sorry this comment is so long.) I had thought I felt the Lord tugging on my heart to go into full time vocational ministry. I DO NOT feel the tug on my heart to be a traditional pastor of a church. For about the past 18 months I have been looking at being a chaplain in the military. I have not had an “open door” with any recruiter (Navy or National Guard). The main problem is that I do not have a M.DIV degree, and nobody wants to talk to me, without the degree.

I have a B.A. in psychology (1986) and a B.S. in electronics technology (1998). I will be 44 years old in October 2008. I have been saved for almost 30 years (you can visit the above web page if you like). I have a tremendous amount of life experience (they used to call it “hard knocks”). I have been married for 6 years and have a 4 year old daughter.

I have given the chaplaincy serious thought, but I seem to be getting nowhere fast. I come from a penticostal/protestant/independent background. As a child and teenager I was raised in the catholic church until just after I got saved. I have looked at online education. Liberty University seems to be the only decent option. However, there are two problems. First, I work full time (sometimes more than 40 hrs/wk), and I have a family. Second, I already have student loans from my above education. Unless the Lord does a financial miracle, I might be paying back my student loans until I am in my 70’s!! (I will be in my early 60’s when I am done with my electronics loans, and the only thing Liberty University has is more student loans for the M.Div degree.) And last but not least I do have some medical issues (high blood pressure/prescription). Can somebody give me some advice or at least pray for me?!

May the Lord bless you and keep you and make His face to shine upon you and give you peace.

Bruce Steo

jackofalltrades@email.com
brucesteo@yahoo.net
http://www.geocities.com/brucesteo
404-372-2864

Hello and God bless you all,

I am wondering about what would happen should a Guard soldier serving an enlistment enter seminary and apply for entry into the chaplain candidate program. Does he lose the incentive benefits offered him in his enlistment contract, like GI Bill and student loan repayment? Or would those be included into his commission? Thank you for your time!

Mark,

Give me a call and we can talk about your options.

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
RRAC III Chaplain Recruiter
(770) 866-3630

Matthew, you can apply for the chaplain candidate program once you have an acceptance letter for enrollment in the next regular semester of seminary/graduate school. If you are already enrolled, you can began as soon as you complete the paperwork and are accepted into the candidate program.

I assume you would be unable to serve in the military while living as a civilian outside of the U.S. You should talk to a chaplain recruiter about this, however.

Robert, on the basis of the information you provided, I doubt that this would be an issue. However, a MEPS doctor would need to review your history and evaluate your current condition. Talk with a chaplain recruiter about this issue.

Hello,
I am a former Marine with 12 years AD service, to include a tour in Iraq. I am scheduled to graduate with my BS in Adult Education in December. I believe in the Chaplain program and am saved today because of a Chaplain in Iraq! I have felt the call into ministry for a few years now and my spirit leaped when I heard about the Chaplain Candidate Program. I am married with two little girls. Currently I reside in Southern California, but would like to relocate to Colorado. I am anxious to start my M.Div degree; however, I need some guidance. For example, I don’t know how Chaplain Candidates support their family while completing their degree. Are there any programs that offer the Candidate an opportunity for AD pay while studying? I am not concerned with the branch of service or status of the enlistment (active or reserve). Thanks for your help.
Eric

Eric,

Please give me a call and we can talk about your specific situation. The Chaplain Candidate Program is in the Reserves and National Guard only. The National Guard will pay you for drill time (one weekend a month, 2 weeks annual training) and you are eligible for Federal Tuition Assistance. If you took the GI Bill you can use that also.

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
(770) 866-3630
Chaplain Recruiter

Eric, talk to CH Ehler as he is best suited to give you information about your specific situation. You might also read the article I wrote about enlisted personnel becoming chaplains, as this addresses some of the questions you raise (someday when I have time and motivation, I will finish the second part of the article). Tuition assistance is one option, as is the GI Bill. Neither of these will cover all of your family’s living expenses, but it can go a long way; with a part-time job to supplement, you might find it possible to persevere.

Dear Fr. Daniel:

Thank you for your honest response. I would rather not go through a door if the Lord is not in it. I do not want to force a door open. “Some God has sent, others just got up and went,” as the saying goes. You did not insult me. “Faithful are the wounds of a friend,” as the Bible says.

I will be going back into Children’s ministry (I used to be a Children’s pastor in 2003), beyond that, I have no idea where God is leading me. I am leaving everything in God’s hands.

May the Lord bless you, and keep you,

Bruce Steo

I have a question about the current state of student loan repayment for ARNG CHs and CCs. I just quickly skimmed this site, maybe this has been covered already.

My situation is that I have been a CC for 3 years. This month I completed my MDIV (137 quarter hours from an acredited Seminary). I have been endorsed by a recognized church body for 3 years as a CC. I was ordained and installed as an Associate Pastor on 17 AUG 2008. I completed the CHOBC course in 2006. So, I think I am tracking on all my requirements. . .BUT, the Ministry to the Armed Forces (MAF) in my denomination will not let me accession all the way to Chaplain until I have served 2 years in Parish. So I will be a CC for 2 more years. The problem is that the student loan payments start kicking in in about 9 months.

So the ($30,000) question is:

Can I qualify for the Chaplain’s Student Loan repayment as a CC or must I have accessioned all the way to Chaplain?

I know CH Douglas is the “answer man” from talking to him in the past!

PAX Christi

Great advice in these posts! And all indications are that I’m not eligible for an Army Guard Chaplaincy position. However I would like to briefly share my story and ask if you are aware of waivers that may crack the door open for me. I am currently 50 years old (first strike against me) and served in the Idaho Army National Guard and Washington Army National Guard from 1975 to 1981 (5 yrs, 11 months service). During that time I attended OCS at the Washington State Military Academy and received my commission as a 2LT. I have a BA in Psychology from Seattle Pacific University and attended The Salvation Army seminary in 1991-1993. I have been a Salvation Army officer for the past 15 years. (Hopefully you understand that The Salvation Army is a Protestant church…which means I am an ordained minister) My wife and I pastored two Salvation Army congregations for 6 years, and for the past 9 years we have been in administrative positions. I’m currently living in San Pedro, CA. Although I can obtain my denominational endorsement – my two year Seminary with the Salvation Army was not a masters level program (2nd strike against me). I know that prior to the volunteer army era The Salvation Army, as well as other denominations, had slots to fill and their unique seminary qualifications were accepted, and age waivers were granted. However it’s a new era. Do you see any opportunity for me? I would appreciate your insights. I’ve thought about the chaplaincy for a long, long time, but have never felt the door open. I’ve been blessed with good health and know I can pass the fitness test. Your thoughts would be appreciated.

I am in the process of signing up as a Guard Chaplain. I have a few questions. I am ordained, endorsed and am just waiting on paperwork but am unclear about a few things. First, I was under the understanding that there was a signing bonus. Is there one or is it given after training. What is the training and how long is it for?

Thank you in advance for answering these questions.

Dana Durham

I am currently trying to get in to the guard as a chaplain candidate. A year and a half ago I spent 3 days in a mental health hospital after my medical doctor put me on a medication that caused severe side effects resulting in suicidal thoughts and a overdose on over the counter pills. I have documination stating it was a result of a medication side effect, but I want to know if this is an automatic DQ that can’t be wavered. I can also provide documination that I have never before or since had these thoughts or actions, only during the 6 days I was on the medication.

Greg,

This is a case I would rather talk to you on the phone about. That way we can talk through each piece. Please give me a call at the below number

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
(770) 866-3630

Rick, sorry, but you’re right about the age. The limit is 47. I encourage you to find other ways to minister to Soldiers, though, if that is what you truly want to do. Look at working with some of the organizations that provide support to deployed Soldiers and Families; or contact some of the civilian ministries that work on Army installations–such as the Navigators, Campus Crusade’s Military Ministry, etc.

Hello All!

My name is SGT William Fisher and the ets date from my current active duty enlistment is 01FEB2010. I have a BA and am interested in entering into the National Guard chaplain candidacy program after I leave active duty. I have already researched several online degrees….this leads me to two questions-

1. Are there any masters degree programs located in central North Carolina that would work to fulfill the requirements for the program?

2. VERY IMPORTANT QUESTION HERE: I am a member of the United Methodist Church and I have heard that obtaining endorsement from them for military chaplaincy is nearly impossible. Does anyone know anything about this?

thanks!

SGT Fisher
williamstarlingfisher@gmail.com

Dear Fr. Daniel:

I would like to post this as a FYI (For Your Information) type of thing, and also as a warning for chaplain recruiters and people considering being a chaplain. Recruiters may want to share this information with each other and prevent some heartache for people who want to go into chaplaincy. A few weeks ago I was talking to you about being a chaplain, but finally decided to go into children’s ministry at my local church as volunteer work.

The idea of being a chaplain still appeals to me and I don’t really know if it is my flesh or if it really is the Lord tugging on my heart to do some kind of full time ministry. Last Thursday, my regular job ended and I am now unemployed. I thought that the Lord might be “closing one door, and opening another” as they say. (By the way, please pray for me that I find a job soon!)

To make a long story short, there are at least 2 scams out there for people who are looking to become chaplains (in the military or in a hospital):

1. Ashwood University. This online school says that they will convert your life experience into college credit to get your Master of Divinity degree. (They are based in California, not to be confused with another Ashwood University here in Georgia.) There are, in fact, schools that will give you credit towards your degree for life experience – that is a real thing. Since I have two bachelors degrees (Psychology, Electronics Technology) from regular “brick and mortar” schools that I went to, and I have 29 years of Bible Study and church work experience (including youth ministry and children’s ministry), but no Master’s degree – I thought this was the perfect solution to get a Master’s degree.

Holy cow, was I wrong! After doing some “homework” on this online school, I found out that they are nothing more that a glorified “Diploma Mill.” They say they are accredited by two agencies. Come to find out, these agencies are not recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, nor the military. Their address in California is actually a “strip mall” of shops (that shop probably operates under a different name). The degrees and transcripts that they give you are mailed from the country of Pakistan! As they say, “The truth usually comes out in the wash.”

2. American Data Group Jobs. This company guarantees that they can help you become a chaplain. You pay them $69 and they send you a packet of information that you fill out and send back. If you don’t become a chaplain, or you are not satisfied, they say they will refund your money. (They also have other government jobs where they say they will do similar.) Since I grew up in New York, once I heard them say the above, my “New York radar” went up. I have seen many scams, and this is just another one.

Because there are many people who read this web page, and have a genuine heart for ministry as I do, I thought it was a good idea to warn everyone – and prevent a lot of heartache. I have to admit it was kind of crushing to find the truth. At least I am the wiser for it. I hope you are too.

If you really want to get an online degree, the two best places are Liberty University and Luther Rice University (in Atlanta). There is also ITC in Atlanta, but they are more liberal, but all three are accepted by the military.

May the Lord bless you and keep you,
and make His face to shine upon you and give you peace.

Bruce Steo
jackofalltrades@email.com
404-372-2864

Hello all,

I am a USAR TPU Officer from the state of Kentucky. I am interested in learning if the CC program is something I should consider vs simply staying in my current branch while completing the seminary.

I am currently deployed at Camp Victory, Iraq and plan on begining seminary upon my return Spring 2009. I am 41 years old and have 21 years of service if that makes a difference in your answer(s).

I am only interested in USAR / ARNG Chaplaincy!

Father Sparks: This website is a great resource. Thanks for taking the time to create and manage it!

God Bless!

~Doug Caldwell

Doug

Please get in touch with me through email and we can talk about the possibilities

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
Chaplain Recruiter, ARNG

Greetings Fellow Ministers,
I have recently been accepted into my faith group’s only seminary St. Andrews Theological College and Seminary. I have also been accepted as in Inquirer for Holy Orders in the Orthodox Anglican Church. My faith group is recognized by the Department of Defense for Ecclesiastical Endorsement. We have an endorsing agent and also Reserve Chaplains currently serving.
However, St. Andrews is not accredited by a department of defense recognized agency yet. Do I have options for Chaplaincy or am I missing something?
Thank you and may God bless you all,
Wesley Brooks

Hays

As long as you complete your degree at an accredited school, you are good. If you need a list of online programs please send me an email or give me a call.

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
ARNG Chaplain Recruiter
(770) 866-3630

Hello,
I recently joined the military as a paralegal in the reserve component. I was wondering once i finish school if i would have any issues applying to the chaplin candidacy or would i need to wait for my contract to run its course before i needed to switch to national guard and go chaplin. Also how would i get a list of accredited seminarys where i could start taking classes now?

I am a graduate of the CHOBC in 2005. I was a chaplain candidate from 1999-2002 in the national guard and then 2002-2005 in the IRR. I did not finnish my seminary degree. I am on active duty now. How do I get back into the program if I am on active duty. Please send me an email. I do not have the ability to call from where I am in Iraq.

God Bless.

CPL Smith, I am not certain, but I suspect that you would not be able to return to the candidate program unless you have diploma in hand. The maximum amount of time allowed in the candidate program is 6 years (unless there is good reason for an exception), which you have apparently already hit. You should contact a chaplain recruiter about this. I also recommend that you get started on completing your degree as soon as possible.

I am Jewsih and would like to go into the Candidate program. The ATS does not give accredidation to Jewish schools. Can you tell me what the school I would like to join should be accredited by. Also is there a time limit to in the program.

Daniel,

I have a list of accredited schools and would be able to help you find a school that you can attend on your path to the Chaplaincy. Please give me a call or shoot me an email.

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
Regional Chaplain Recruiter
(770) 866-3630
scott.ehler@us.army.mil

Eric

Please give me a call and I can answer these questions for you. What state are you from?

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
(770) 866-3630
scott.ehler@us.army.mil

Lou,

Please give me a call, I am the recruiter for that area and can work on your packet.

CH(CH) Scott Ehler
(770) 866-3630
scott.ehler@us.army.mil

Ed,

According to AR40-501, only a splenectomy is disqualifying. What you need to do is fill out the appropriate paperwork to schedule a physical. You will need all paperwork from the doctor pertaining to this also. Please give me a call and we can get you started on the process.

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
(770) 866-3630
Regional Chaplain Recruiter ARNG

Thanks for all of the information. I am interested in the National guard chaplain candidate program. I am 36 years old. I spent 9 years active duty Navy. I was discharged in 2001 with an honorable (re-1). While I was active duty I broke my leg and had a rod installed. I am classified as 10% disabled by the va. Is this disqualifying? I am in my third semester of seminary at Liberty. I have read that tuition assistance covers up to $4500/yr. This will cover my cost for classes. My question is am I eligible to use the $20,000 student loan repayment for books and other costs as well as the tuition assistance? Also, I had the G.I. bill from my initial enlistment. I used it to complete my undergrad. Am I eligible for reserve G.I. bill. Lastly, I have read that there is a bonus after completing chobc. Is this true or does this only apply after you complete seminary and become a chaplain. I am sorry about all of the questions. Thank you for your time.

Thanks LT Caldwell….what classes are you taking? If you don’t mind, give me your e-mail address and I’ll shoot you an e-mail.

Kyle, I recommend that you contact a chaplain recruiter to discuss the issue of your medical condition and the bonuses in question. As I understand it, the $20,000 education bonus is limited to the amount of education debt that is unpaid; for example, if your G.I. Bill benefits covered all but $5,000 of education expenses, you would only receive $5,000 to pay off the debt, not $20,000. As far as the commissioning bonus goes, I believe it would be paid after accessioning and a minimum period of time has passed, just like enlistment bonuses are paid for enlisted Soldiers.

How soon after starting seminary can I attend CHBOLC? Are there winter sessions as well?

Grant,

There is usually a class that starts in January. You have to work out when you go with your state chaplain. There are regulations in place that affect when you are allowed to finish the course in regards to how much seminary you have left. If you do a web search on Army Chaplain School you will find the site with a lot of usefull information.

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler

I am a 36 year old female who is interested in the Chaplaincy. I have been interested in the military since I was 17. Twice I tried to sign up but family constraints wouldn’t allow me. I recently found out about the age limit being raised, and it sparked my interest once more. I gave my life to Christ at age 17, and have worked in the ministry although I have never been ordained. I didn’t feel that it was the right time. I have always felt a call of God on my life and I was a military wife for 14 years, so I understand the struggles of military families and the need for strong spiritual support, for parents and children. I am 2 classes away from completing my bachelor’s degree, and I am interested in attending seminary school. I have been seeking direction from God on what he would have me to do next, and I would be very interested in speaking with a recruiter to get more information.

My question would be since I do not have official seminary training, and my degree is in Business Management, would I still be able to enroll in the Chaplain Candidacy Program? What I do have is a calling on my life, experience in several facets of ministry, and a passion to do God’s will and see his Kingdom grow in the lives of others.

Hello,

Thank you so much for your website. I have few questions.

I am a female looking into the possibly of joining the Army Reserve and its Chaplain and or Chaplain assistant program. I graduated with my Bachelor degree in May of last year. What role does having a degree already would play in my enrollment into the Army Reserve? I will be starting seminary in the fall in New York City. I would really like to talk with a Chaplin recruiter here, is there a regional Chaplin for New York City?

Can you please tell me, what is the ratio of female chaplain in the Army Reserve? Also is there a possibly of deployment while in the program and in seminary?

Thank you for any information that you can provide to me. Have a great day.

Daniel

I understand your question, but need more information on the direction you are heading. That would make the answer easier.

Please give me a call or email

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
(770) 866-3630
scott.ehler@us.army.mil

Damon

You definateley need to talk to a Chaplain Recruiter, this is what we do. Please give me a call and we can talk about it. I will ask you a series of questions to be able to tell if you will be accepted or not. Call me!!

CH(CPT) Scott Ehler
Chaplain Recruiter
(770) 866-3630

My husband has been getting some unclear answers… He just graduated from seminary this year and has his MDiv. He is part of a non-denominational church that does not ordain people– they just recognize them for ministry. He has served in the church (on a volunteer basis– 3 in one and 2 in another) for almost 5 years. Is ordination completely necessary? Is this something he can work towards AFTER entering the chaplain program or does he have to be ordained prior to joining?

Keith

I have never heard of this but the reasoning might be a lack of credentials (usually full-time experience after graduating seminary)

Ed, I know it’s been a while since your question, and I hope that the accessions board went well. For others’ reference, here is my answer.

As I understand it, waivers (financial, moral, ministerial, etc.) must be approved by the Chief of Chaplains (or his representative) prior to the accessions packet going to the board. Thus, so long as the board believes you are otherwise qualified, the approved waivers would not be an issue for the board. That is, the waivered issues would not be considered by the accessions board because the matters had already been scrubbed through Chief’s rep. If a waiver is not acceptable to the Chief’s office, your packet will NOT go before the accessions board.

Hello I am 42 spent 4 yrs in the USAF. I have been ordained since June of 2000, I Have been Pastoring at an Assemby of God Church for the last 2 years. I would love to serve in the Army Chaplains Corp. I do not have my degree. I am ordained through The Ohio School Of Assembly Of God, we are not accredited. Do I have any options ?