Chaplaincy Services performs two vital missions for the Church of the Nazarene. First, in its official capacity, it grants Ecclesiastical Endorsement to full-time, part-time, and volunteer chaplains. Most chaplain oversight bodies, whether military or civilian, require denominational endorsement. This ensures that candidates of a consistently high caliber are endorsed for chaplain ministry. Since chaplains represent the Church of the Nazarene in demanding and diverse settings as an extension of the local church, it is critical that the Church of the Nazarene endorse only well-trained and capable chaplains who are spiritually and theologically sound. The Chaplain Administrative Director, in conjunction with the Chaplain Advisory Council, makes every attempt to ensure that only those truly “called” and gifted for this work and only those in harmony with the teachings and beliefs of the Church of the Nazarene receive ecclesiastical endorsement.
Chaplaincy Services’ second vital mission is to recruit, advocate, and support Nazarene chaplains and service personnel and their families around the world. Because chaplains work outside the walls of the church, it can be difficult to maintain contact with the local, district, and general church. Chaplaincy Services, using all means at its disposal (email, internet, fax, print, DVD, telephone, and personal visits), seeks to help chaplains and service members stay connected.
Chaplaincy Services continues to grow at a phenomenal pace. In 1984, there were 155 chaplains serving in the Church of the Nazarene. Today, there are over 900. All projections for the future show that the demand for alternative ministries outside the walls of the local church will continue to grow. Currently, the demand for chaplains exceeds the supply. There are many positions available in both the military and health care facilities. Though more limited, positions are open as well in corrections and other workplace settings.
Never have the doors of opportunity been more open. The First Century Apostles, who were literally kicked out of every place they went, could never have imagined a day when public and private institutions would actively pursue the services of a Christian chaplain. Praise God.
If Chaplaincy Services can assist you in any way, please call 1-800-233-8962 or email chap@nazarene.org.
About Chaplaincy Services Staff