Role of a Military Chaplain: What Does It Entail?

Considering potentially becoming a military chaplain in the future, but I'm not sure what the job involves. Could someone outline the key duties and any special training required?

A military chaplain's role is, at its core, similar to that of a religious leader within a civilian community, except that their congregation is composed of service members within their designated military branch. They provide spiritual guidance and religious services, and they also offer counseling to soldiers and their families.

Here are some main components of a military chaplain's job:

1. Religious Services and Ceremonies: As a chaplain, you would be in charge of leading worship services, prayer meetings, and religious ceremonies at your military base, on ships, or in combat zones.

2. Pastoral Care and Counseling: Another major aspect of a military chaplain's role is offering emotional support to service members. Whether it's helping them cope with deployment stress, personal issues, or loss, chaplains provide a listening ear and helpful advice.

3. Advising Command: You would serve as a crucial link and advisor about morale, ethical issues, and religious matters to the unit's commanding officer. This is pivotal in making decisions that take into account the spiritual well-being of the unit.

4. Support for Families: Beyond supporting service members, you'll also provide assistance to military families both before and during deployments, and in matters of grief and loss.

Regarding the training, apart from needing a bachelor's degree, you will also need a graduate degree in theological or religious studies, usually a Masters of Divinity. Moreover, different branches of the military have additional prerequisites for chaplains. For instance, the Army requires chaplains to be between the ages of 21-42 and endorse by a religious body. Following this, aspiring chaplains attend Chaplain Officer Basic Leadership Course (COBLC) for the surgical training needed to carry out their duties in a military context.

Lastly, one should note that being a chaplain often demands flexibility and resilience as you may be deployed domestically or internationally and face challenging environments. But those who pursue this path often find it extremely fulfilling and worthwhile.