How to Become an International Chaplain

International Church

Becoming an international chaplain will open opportunities to you to care for those you otherwise may not have access to. Since you will be required to care for those of many different religions, having an international status may be encouraging to some who otherwise would be hesitant about receiving help from a chaplain if they felt the chaplain would not be open to their particular religion.

Instructions

1. Carefully review the job description of an international chaplain before you apply. You'll be performing the regular duties of a chaplain: conducting weddings and funerals, listening to people's problems, praying with them, performing last rites and more, but you will be doing it, or at least have more access to do it, on an international basis. Chaplains are simply members of the clergy who serve people in institutions like hospitals and prisons rather than a church. Becoming an internationally recognized chaplain carries great responsibility. You will be responsible for the emotional and spiritual well-being and development of others in stressful situations. You may also be asked to travel internationally and even into potentially hostile or troubled areas in order to provide care for those in need.

2. Apply for the proper credentials through a recognized facility. Chaplains International and Chaplains Federation both provide licensing and ordination. Some application processes require no more than filling out an application, either by mail or online, and sending in your resume and or letters of reference. Other institutions require that you already have licensing and ordination as a member of the clergy whether it be as pastor or chaplain. Some organizations require you to have an accredited degree in theology or divinity at the bachelor's level or higher.

3. Pay any fees required for shipping and processing of your international credentials. The period will vary on processing times due to each organization's policies and their procedures for information verification during the application processes.

4. Once you obtain your credentials, you may begin letting your contacts know and place on your resume that you have international standing. You may also be required by your licensing and ordination agency going forward to complete any continuing education in such fields as spiritual care or crisis management, depending on the situation. Each licensing and ordination company varies in its approach, but nearly all of them promote further education, whether it be formally in classes they provide at a cost, or books and materials they recommend as reading material to strengthen your skills.

Tips & Warnings

• Finding either a paid or volunteer position as an international chaplain can be as simple as calling hospitals, hospices, nursing homes, police stations, fire departments and international relief organizations such the Red Cross and inquiring about any chaplain programs they may currently have in place. If they don't have one, you can inquire about the possibility of starting one.

• The institution that ordains and/or licenses you will provide a code of ethics statement that you are required to comply with. Each organization also has processes in place for certain levels of accountability because of the serious nature of care you will be providing to individuals. Be sure to read and follow all of the processes and procedures issued by the company that licenses you.

References

• Chaplains International, Inc
• Chaplain Fellowship Ministries International, Inc

Resources

• Red Cross Volunteer Opportunties Locator