How do I navigate my contractual obligations in switching from Logistics to Chaplaincy?

1LT Private RallyPoint Member — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 13:04:28 -0500

Currently working with local Chaplain and Chaplain recruiter for my region, tracking that side of chaplain candidacy program already which is the preferred route for me and all other requirements. Currently discussing this with my commander, they are unfamiliar with the process. Calling my branch manager every hour to see if they'll help.

I commissioned out of ROTC into active duty. If I am interested in becoming a Chaplain how do I get permission or navigate my contract to make that possible? Who's help do I need and who do I need to speak with? Any help or information is appreciated.

Response by LTC Jason Mackay made Jan 7 at 2021 2:03 PM

LTC Jason Mackay — Thu, 07 Jan 2021 14:03:15 -0500

1LT Private RallyPoint Member so here is the deal. Many of those direct commission opportunities have no pathway from a competitive category commission to that niche direct commission. I tried working this for a QM officer who was coming up on her ADSO and wanted more than anything to be a Equine Veterinarian. Very tough program, had been accepted to Vet School, but there was no program to facilitate that program and a branch transfer. Only way was all the way out, then all the way back in. It got too hard, and she just said screw it. So we lost a combat proven and squared away officer because there was just no bridge to do it. I guess the Army just got enough Animal Docs off the street.

Your ADSO will be an issue. I anticipate you will have to REFRAD, go the divinity route, then apply for direct commission as a chaplain.

CH (COL) Geoff Bailey Sir, is there a bridging program this officer could pursue? I am not up on all the accessions methods for Chaplains.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Jan 8 at 2021 12:35 PM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 12:35:26 -0500

Have you gone through your local Chaplain or Chaplain recruiter? They are the SME's on this. Have you completed all of the eligibility requirements? Degree? Job experience needed and Denominational endorsements? I would start there but you may have some work to do before going that route.

https://www.goarmy.com/chaplain/become-an-army-chaplain/requirements.html

Army Chaplain Requirements

As the spiritual leaders of the Army, Chaplains must be qualified morally and intellectually to provide Soldiers the free exercise of religion. On this page, you’ll learn about the requirements to become an Army Chaplain.

Response by Lt Col Jim Coe made Jan 8 at 2021 2:45 PM

Lt Col Jim Coe — Fri, 08 Jan 2021 14:45:53 -0500

As far as I know (based on knowing a couple of AF Chaplains well), you need to be ordained by a recognized religious group. That group must agree to certify you and provide you to the Service as a Chaplain. Ordained individuals normally have a license from their state of residence to be a "minister." The Service Chief of Chaplains sets up the directives and rules for each Service. I suspect they are about the same for all the Services and faiths to comply with Federal non-discrimination law. You should look up Army Regulations pertaining the the Chaplain Corps. It probably tells how to get in and how to get out.