Currently browsing Chaplain Candidate Program

Probably the most popular articles on my website are those about the Army Chaplain Candidate program. I began writing the articles to help others learn more about the chaplain candidate process, something I didn’t know much about when I first became a candidate.
The series has been on hold for a while because of my [...]

All Army chaplains must complete the Chaplain Officer Basic Course (CHOBC). This course takes place at the U.S. Army Chaplain Center and School (USACHCS) at Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina.
I am frequently questioned by civilians whether chaplains go through basic training. No, chaplains do not go through basic training (boot camp), as [...]

Okay, you’ve been through the paperwork and your packet went before the chaplain candidate appointment board. You were approved and you’ve received your appointment packet, sworn the oath of office, and mailed the papers in. You’ve received your commission and your letter of appointment to the IRR. Now what?
Education
The most important thing [...]

One of the most critical pieces in the chaplain candidate life cycle–and in the chaplaincy in general–is the ecclesiastical endorsement. For chaplain candidates, this is actually referred to as “ecclesiastical approval” instead of “ecclesiastical endorsement”. You will get nowhere as a prospective chaplain candidate/chaplain if you do not have an ecclesiastical approval/endorsement.
What is [...]

You’ve decide to take the plunge and become a chaplain–or at least to become a chaplain candidate and test the water. The work has just begun.
The first part of serving as an Army chaplain candidate is submitting a packet for the appointment board. First, let’s run over the list of things you should [...]

Additional ways to learn more about the Army chaplaincy and the chaplain candidate program:
Seek out chaplain candidates in your seminary. They can relate their own experiences firsthand. They may be able to help you with paperwork or with contacting the chaplain recruiter. They can tell you what the Chaplain Officer Basic Course [...]

You’ve decided you’re interested in the challenges and opportunities of ministry as an Army chaplain. How do you learn more about it?
The first thing I recommend you do when considering the Army chaplaincy is to read a little about the requirements for appointment as a chaplain and about the ministry of the chaplaincy. [...]

If you have an interest in serving God and our country as an Army chaplain, here are some pointers for beginning your journey to soldier ministry. These suggestions are based on my own experience and knowledge and do not necessarily reflect official Army doctrine or policy.
Chaplaincy qualifications
To serve as a chaplain, you must fulfill [...]