JOB DUTIES
Chaplains are non-combatants and do not carry a weapon. As an Army National Guard chaplain, you'll lead a Unit Ministry Team (UMT), consisting of you and a trained Religious Affairs Specialist (an enlisted combatant Soldier trained to support chaplains during their missions and everyday activities).

If you're already a religious ministry professional serving a faith group, you can earn your commission within weeks and begin your ministry to Army National Guard Soldiers as soon as you complete the Chaplain Direct Commission course and all phases of the Chaplain Basic Officer Leader Course (CHBOLC). If not yet fully qualified as a chaplain, you may apply to begin serving as a chaplain candidate.

Army National Guard chaplains receive excellent pay as well as additional incentives.

• Conduct religious ministries, including workshops, counseling, religious education, and special events
• Officiate at worship services, funerals, memorials, and other military functions
• Provide religious support to all military personnel in foreign lands while on deployment
• Advise the Commander on all matters of religion and morale

REQUIREMENTS

• Possess a Bachelor's degree (not less than 120 semester hours)
• Possess an accredited Master's degree of not less than 72 semester hours (36 semester hours must be in Theology)
• Obtain a federally-recognized ecclesiastical endorsement from your faith group
• Are less than 42 years of age (age waivers are available)
• Be mentally and physically fit
• Must be a citizen of the United States
• Be able to obtain a Secret security clearance

TRAINING
When you join the Army National Guard as a chaplain, you'll be a commissioned officer. If you join prior to qualification as a chaplain, you may enter as a chaplain candidate. In either case, you'll attend the Chaplain Direct Commission Course and Chaplain Basic Officer Leader Course (CHBOLC) You will learn fundamental military tasks and how to perform religious duties in a military environment. The three-month course can be completed in one block or in several phases over a 24-month period. 

EDUCATION BENEFITS
The Chaplain Candidate Program (CCP) is designed for religious ministry students who want to get a head start on a career in Army Chaplaincy while still in school. By participating in CCP, you'll gain valuable experience and make a real impact in the lives of Soldiers and their families. Qualified students can earn tuition assistance, merit-based scholarships, allowances for books and fees, and drill pay as an officer.