What is Chaplaincy?

Chaplaincy is a person-centered, needs-directed, servant-oriented ministry. Chaplaincy serves the spiritual and emotional needs of others. Chaplaincy is an extension of the local church reaching into our diverse and multi-cultural society providing spiritual care to people.

Who is a chaplain?

By definition, a chaplain is “an individual called by God to serve in a pluralistic environment ministering to persons in unique settings”. Chaplains, like other ministers, experience a definite call from God to serve. Without the call, a chaplain will not survive in the secular environment. He will “pack his bags” and leave the chaplain ministry at the first sign of conflict. A chaplain bases his life and ministry on God’s call. Survival in any environment for a chaplain depends on his faithfulness to God’s call. No greater calling exists!

Who can serve?

A Chaplain is male or female, a born-again, baptized believer in Christ, an active member of a local Baptist church, a person of proven integrity and trustworthiness and a person who knows and understands who he/she is.

What does a chaplain do?

A chaplain performs various ministries including visitation, building relationships, crisis intervention, giving emotional support and providing spiritual care. Chaplains are trained to listen and become the needed counselor. Chaplains know the power of prayer. Chaplains meet spiritual, emotional, social and, sometimes, physical needs. Ordained chaplains, also, minister through performing weddings and funerals.

Where do chaplains serve?

Chaplains serve in a secular environment; many times, in unique locations with unique people. Look at the Categories of Chaplaincy and you will see a multitude of possibilities. Chaplaincy ministry is only limited by the none-use of our creative minds.

Does being a chaplain require training?

Education directly relates to the commitment of a chaplain to serve the Lord to the best of his ability according to his personal skills.

How do you secure a chaplain position?

Chaplains determine chaplain needs and seek opportunities to serve in their local communities.

Chaplain credentialing?

Volunteer Chaplains In the early 80’s Florida Baptists began a certification process for volunteer chaplains needing credentials. Many entities such as county jails, law enforcement agencies and hospitals require all chaplains to have credentials. The certification process states that you have been approved by the Florida Baptist Convention to serve in this role. It provides the chaplain with credibility that many organizations require. If you need credentials, consider going through the certification process. Certification requirements are listed below.

Career Chaplains If you are seeking employment as a chaplain, we greatly encourage you to go through the endorsement process with the North American Mission Board. Click here for information and application.
Chaplains are welcome to become Florida Baptist Certified Chaplains as well as Chaplains endorsed by the North American Mission Board.

What is the Florida Baptist Chaplains Network?

The Florida Baptist Chaplains Network is a network of chaplains currently serving, or pursuing a chaplain’s position, who have submitted a basic chaplain’s application. Being a part of the Florida Baptist Chaplains Network provides opportunities for training through workshops and conferences, fellowship opportunities, and various resources. The network includes all Florida Baptist chaplains, not just Florida Baptist certified or NAMB endorsed chaplains.

Facility administrators sometime require credentials, which validate the training the chaplain receives. Without the training, facility administrators question credibility and ability to function in their facility. They want trained chaplains they trust and feel confident will perform with integrity.

Requirements

1. Complete the Basic Chaplaincy Application.

2. Complete a total of 20 hours of Chaplaincy Training from the following resources:

• FBC Chaplaincy Online Courses
• Complete CISM or Stress First Aid (SFA)
• NAMB Chaplaincy Courses
• Chaplaincy courses offered by your local hospital or other chaplaincy organizations
• Any course which will enhance you and develop your ministry skills

3. Complete six months experience – 10 hours per week.

4. Two letters of recommendation:

• Pastor, Church Staff Member or AMS
• Person documenting six months experience

5. Complete background check:

The Florida Baptist Convention implemented an updated protocol for all its employees and volunteers. All convention staff and volunteers will be required to submit to a background check conducted by “Protect My Ministry”. There will be no blanket exceptions to the new policy and protocol. If you have been through a background check or other screenings, you are still required to undergo the “Protect My Ministry” background check. The Florida Baptist Convention appreciates the cooperation of all employees and volunteers.

Background checks required by all certified chaplains – $15 fee

6. Complete Certification Application.

Special Notes:
1) Only Chaplains that are members of a Florida Baptist church may be certified.
2) Certification is valid for three years. After three years, a re-certification application will need to be submitted along with a background check.

Background checks required by all certified chaplains – $15 fee

Background checks required by all certified chaplains – $15 fee

Background checks required by all certified chaplains – $15 fee

Background checks required by all certified chaplains – $15 fee

Background checks required by all certified chaplains – $15 fee