Officer Careers & Jobs: Clergy
Officer Careers & Jobs: Clergy Photo Caption

Clergy

Put Your Faith in Action Like Never Before

Overview

The appeal to serve God is truly an open call. As a Chaplain in the Navy Reserve, you will take up the sacred work of encouraging, enlightening and spiritually guiding our brothers and sisters — regardless of their background. It’s a work that blesses both the servant and the receiver.

Description

Serving as a Chaplain in the Navy Reserve will give you a tremendous opportunity to provide a meaningful service in the lives of others. Recall your purpose as a servant of God. Be the moral anchor for young Sailors and Marines. Discover the pride of serving your country — looking after those who preserve our faith and our freedom with their lives.

Specifics

As a Navy Chaplain, you may:
  • Conduct worship services in a variety of settings
  • Perform religious rites and ceremonies, such as weddings and funerals
  • Counsel individuals who seek guidance
  • Oversee religious education programs, such as Sunday school and youth groups
  • Visit and provide spiritual guidance and care to hospitalized personnel and/or their family members
  • Train lay leaders to conduct religious education programs
  • Promote attendance at religious services, retreats and conferences
  • Serve alone or as part of a clergy team

Training

Candidates must complete basic Reserve Military Orientation Training at the Naval Chaplain School in Newport, R.I. Classes are held three times a year, in January, June and September. Training may be divided into two sections. All candidates are required to complete training within two years of commissioning.

More Information

All candidates must:
  • Possess a bachelor’s degree (120 semester hours or 180 quarter hours)
  • Possess a graduate degree in the field of theology or related studies from a qualifying educational institution
  • Must have an endorsement from a qualified religious organization as specified in DOD instruction 1304.28

To learn more about becoming a Chaplain in the Navy Reserve, visit ways to join or contact a Navy Reserve Recruiter.

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