My time as an Army chaplain candidate has been very enjoyable but, at times, also very frustrating. Unfortunately, there is little guidance for candidates and the frequent turnover in chaplain recruiting and management doesn’t help.
So, to help those who come behind me, I will offer a series of posts with advice for chaplain candidates and potential chaplain candidates. My advice will be based on my own experiences and knowledge and does not necessarily represent official Army doctrine. While the information in this series is specific to the Army chaplain candidate program, Air Force and Navy candidates may also find the information helpful.
If you’re a chaplain, chaplain candidate, or potential candidate, I encourage you to ask questions or make suggestions by filling in the comment box below (if you don’t see it, click the title of this post) or the contact form.
How do I become a, Army Chaplain Candidate as an Acitve Duty Service member? Is it possible? I have been trying to get in touch with an Army Chaplain recruiter for several months now, to know evail. I meet all the requirements as weLL. If you have any info, please let me know.
Thank you
Praise The Lord always,
Kelly
Kelly, it is not possible to serve on active duty as a chaplain candidates. Candidates are only appointed in the Guard or Reserve. To become a candidate, you must be either currently enrolled full time in a seminary program or have recently graduated seminary and be serving in ministry while completing the requirements to become a chaplain.
Mr. Sparks,
I am starting my last two years of my BA in biblical counseling. I am finding it hard to juggle my school, full time employment, family and ministry experience to meet the requirments for Chaplain candidate. I believe I am called to this ministry and I plan on continueing my education to get my Masters Degree in Divinity. What suggestions do you have in regards to meeting the requirments of the ministry? Also, do I have to be full fledge ordained while a Chaplain candidate? And how long can I be a Chaplain candidate to complete my ministry and educational requirements before becomming a Chaplain?
Brandon, you do not need to be ordained to serve as a chaplain candidate. You can serve as a candidate for up to six years. In extenuating circumstances, this can be extended by the chaplain candidate manager.
As far as your pursuit of civilian ministry, that all depends on your desires and your denomination’s requirements. Some folks have served as senior pastors (or sole pastors), some as assistants, some as pastoral leaders of specialized ministries (such as youth ministry, hospital ministry, etc.). The military stipulation is that it be at least two years of pastoral ministry. Your endorser may have additional requirements.