Chaplains at the Forefront of Ministry
Chaplains are leaders, and they must be at the forefront of ministry to people on the fringes of our churches and society. Without chaplains helping to meet the growing needs of society, we will not be fulfilling the mandate to take the gospel into the whole world.
We are Chaplains This Is our Church
The need for and importance of chaplaincy is growing due to the changing needs of people, including the current economic climate, declining moral values, and growing discontent. There is also a rising trend of violence, fear, and a widespread spiritual thirst that many people cannot identify. Chaplaincy and church leadership have a combined effect when addressing problems or crises, making it vital for chaplains in this field to understand the dynamics, scope, methods, possibilities, and issues within chaplaincy.
Chaplains at International Circle of Faith Chaplaincy are dedicated to serving individuals in various settings. Our comprehensive ministry training, coupled with experienced chaplain mentors, ensures that we are well-equipped to meet the diverse needs of the community. We are committed to providing support and care to over 10,000 individuals annually, with a satisfaction rate of 95% among the recipients of our services.
History of Chaplain Ministry
​Professional chaplains have been an integral part of all fabrics of society since 1775, “bringing God to those in need and those in need to God.” In the Military, Professional Chaplains must meet stringent qualifications, including a Master of Divinity (or equivalent) degree, pastoral experience, and the ability to pass the military physical and security clearance. Though noncombatants, they deploy with the military to every base and combat zone to minister to our uniformed men and women.
Chaplaincy in a variety of Institutions
Many nonmilitary institutions (such as the VA, hospitals, Federal Bureau of Prisons, and large corporations) have also recognized the value of providing religious professionals for their personnel, and have included the position of chaplain on their salaried staffs. For the most part, institutional chaplains must have an Master of Divinity and other advanced training, but the physical requirements are less demanding than those of military chaplains.
Locally, police and fire departments, emergency response teams, and small hospitals often ask area pastors to serve as volunteer chaplains. Until recently, the pastor’s life testimony and service were enough to credential him to serve with community organizations. Increasingly, however, these organizations are requiring a national religious body, certification & professional training to endorse the pastor as qualified to be a community service chaplain.
Prisons, hospitals, athletic teams, and service organizations also turn to a certified & professionally trained chaplain to serve on staff and some are salaried positions. Regardless of a paid position or not the position gives the layperson a platform for ministry within a specialized setting.