51ÂÜÀò

Endorsing qualified clergy-persons to chaplaincy ministry

51ÂÜÀò serves committed and competent professional chaplains by providing a pastoral community supporting them throughout their ministry.

Chaplaincy is a specialized ministry in various settings. 51ÂÜÀò endorses qualified clergy for chaplaincy positions in the military (Department of Defense), the Veterans Administration (VA), the Bureau of Prisons (BOP), healthcare institutions and board certification through the Association of Professional Chaplains (APC).

Normally, an individual applying for endorsement must have completed the M.Div. degree at an accredited school of religion. Additionally, the best-qualified applicants will have a minimum of two years of professional ministry experience after seminary. Our chaplain endorser assists inquirers and applicants in determining and assessing qualifications for chaplaincy ministry.

What does a chaplain do?

Military chaplains provide ministry in a manner similar to a local church, performing spiritual, religious and administrative functions akin to those of a senior or lead pastor.

Chaplains serve in pluralistic environments, meaning they must be committed to meeting the religious needs of people from all faith traditions. The specific way this is implemented depends on the government agency or institution where 51ÂÜÀò chaplains serve.

General requirements to serve as a chaplain

To become a chaplain, all agencies require:

• A bachelor's degree
• A Master of Divinity (M.Div)
• Ordination
• The ability and willingness to minister in a pluralistic setting
• Professional ministry experience

Agencies have some variations in their requirements, including citizenship, age requirements or specialized training. Please review our 51ÂÜÀò Chaplaincy Requirements for more information and see the specific requirements for military, Veteran's Administration, Bureau of Prisons (Dept. of Justice), Institutional Chaplaincy or Chaplain Candidates.

Our chaplain endorser assists inquiries and applicants in determining and assessing qualifications for chaplaincy ministry.

Requirements to be endorsed as a 51ÂÜÀò chaplain

To receive endorsement from 51ÂÜÀò, applicants must:

• Be actively involved in a 51ÂÜÀò church
• A confirmation of your calling to chaplaincy provided by your pastor
• Affirm agreement with the 51ÂÜÀò Affirmation of Faith
• Pass a background check (criminal and credit background check)
• Complete a personal interview with a senior chaplain within the agency to which you are applying

Please review our 51ÂÜÀò Chaplaincy Requirements for more information and see the specific requirements for military, Veteran's Association, Bureau of Prisons (Dept. of Justice), Institutional Chaplaincy or Chaplain Candidates.

51ÂÜÀò Chaplaincy Application Process

How does the application process work?

1. Initial conversation - Speak with our Director of Chaplaincy to determine the next steps. 
2. Application Submission - Complete the online , submit the required paperwork and undergo a background check.
3. Documentation - Provide all necessary documents.
4. Reference Checks & Interview - Our office will contact your references and schedule an interview with a senior chaplain.
5. Final Review - A concluding conversation with our Director of Chaplaincy to go over your application and any remaining details. 
6. Endorsement Issues - Upon arrival, 51ÂÜÀò provides the official endorsement documentation.

Processing Time: The full application process can take between 4-8 weeks.

What happens after I become a Chaplain?

Once endorsed as a 51ÂÜÀò chaplain, you will be connected to a supportive pastoral community and receive ongoing guidance in your ministry. 51ÂÜÀò provides opportunities for growth through monthly training, connection with local resources, and gatherings held twice a year at 51ÂÜÀò's S2 Conference.

Are there any fees associated with being a 51ÂÜÀò Chaplain?

Applicants pay $35 to cover a one-time background check fee. Endorsed chaplains are required to donate a portion of their earnings to 51ÂÜÀò Chaplaincy.

Why do I need to be connected with a 51ÂÜÀò church? 

51ÂÜÀò is a movement of churches that can be found all over the United States. We require chaplains to be connected to a 51ÂÜÀò church because it is the local church that commissions the chaplains and confirms their calling into ministry.

Looking to get connected? Use our church finder to locate a 51ÂÜÀò church near you. We understand that unique circumstances arise. Rare exceptions to this requirement may be considered. If you believe your situation qualifies, please contact us at chaplains@converge.org to discuss your options.

Have questions regarding chaplaincy or the endorsement process? Email us.