Experience "faith in action". As a Chaplain in the fast-paced, mission-oriented Navy Reserve, your presence will take on many forms - preacher, teacher, celebrant, counselor, confessor, and friend to those in need. Ashore or afloat, you will bear witness to Almighty God, to the faith traditions of our nation, and to the abiding nature of life’s moral, spiritual and religious foundations. In our force, you will serve as the spiritual and emotional guide for a large and diverse group of Sailors, Marines, Coastguardsmen, and their families. Playing a vital role in helping fellow Sailors negotiate the crucial moments of their lives, you will provide moral support for young people away from home for the first time, lend advice to individuals facing personal or emotional difficulties, and provide spiritual assistance to people from all walks of life.

As a Navy Chaplain (Minister, Priest, or Rabbi), you may:

• Conduct worship services in a variety of settings
• Perform religious rites and ceremonies such as weddings and funeral services
• 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 who conduct religious education programs
• Promote attendance at religious services, retreats, and conferences
• Serve alone or as part of a team of clergy

Qualifications
To qualify, candidates must complete basic Reserve military orientation training at the Naval Chaplain School in Newport, Rhode Island. Classes are held three times each year, beginning in January, June, and September. Training may be divided into two sections. All candidates are required to complete their training within two years of commissioning.

All candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree (120 semester hours or 180 quarter hours) and a graduate degree (72 semester hours or equivalent) from an accredited institution. No less than 36 of the 72 hours must be in theological/ministry and related studies, consistent with the respective religious tradition of the applicant. Endorsement by an ecclesiastical agency recognized by the Armed Forces Chaplains Board is also required. Contact officials of your religious body to determine if you are eligible for endorsement.

To learn how you can become a Chaplain in the Navy Reserve, contact your local Navy Reserve Recruiter today.