How to Become a Chaplain in the Navy

Becoming a chaplain in the U.S. Navy is a way to serve God and country at the same time. Navy chaplains are in the trenches with the women and men who fight for our nation, walking with them each step of the way along their challenging journeys. Chaplains are there when soldiers are sick, injured in battle or when they are experiencing personal difficulties. If you feel the call to serve in this way and have the stamina to complete the requirements, becoming a Navy chaplain may be the right career path for you.

Instructions

1. Earn a bachelors degree, preferably in Religion or a related field. While majoring in Religion is not required, it will make completion of your masters level education more attainable. A high GPA will also make acceptance to graduate school easier.

2. Complete a Master of Divinity degree or its equivalent. Your graduate level education will need to focus on all areas of ministry. Many who enter into Navy chaplaincy pursue a focus in theology and psychology.

3. Obtain ecclesiastical endorsement from your governing church body. In order for the Navy to accept you as a chaplain, they will need to see that you are backed by a church. This gives you credibility and lets the Navy know that you are ready to serve.

4. Pursue two years of experience in a ministry setting. You may choose to serve in a church, hospital or school setting. Obtaining this ministry experience will prepare you to work on your own in military ministry settings.

5. Contact your Navy recruiter and pass all physical, background and other testing required for entrance into the United States Navy. You must also be below the age of 40 or 42 in order to begin actively serving as a chaplain for the Navy. After you have passed all Navy requirements and tests, you will be ready to begin serving God and nation as a Navy chaplain.