My platforms are camo, sweat, earth, tarmac, and steel. My people look into my eyes and ask hard questions like, “Where do I find hope, …peace, …freedom, …purpose?”
Active Duty
Chaplains are a boots-on-the-ground presence in the lives of the active-duty men and women they serve. Because they are held to the same
standards as the service members they serve, chaplains are trusted members of the military family. New recruits seek chaplains for encouragement and guidance as they adjust to military life. Officers of all ranks and positions seek guidance from chaplains during times of crisis and uncertainty, affording chaplains a powerful position of influence among those who serve our country. Routine duties: lead worship services and Bible studies; teach classes on values, morals, and ethics; counsel and support service members, civilians, and their Families; represent Christ to all cultures and religions; serve in settings as varied as the military presence around the world.
Where do I get started?
When you pursue a career as an Apostolic Military Chaplain you’re not just joining an organization, you’re joining an Apostolic Chaplain Family that is here to help you. At any point along the way, call the UPCI Department of Military Chaplaincy at 636-229-7900 to talk about your specific situation and any questions you have.
Step 1: Read over the requirements for UPCI endorsement for Military Chaplaincy:
• Agree with and practice the UPCI’s Articles of Faith.
• Undergraduate degree of 120 semester hours from an accredited institution.
• Master of Theology degree (minimum of 72 semester hours) from an accredited seminary or graduate school of theology. (Master of Divinity degree preferable).
• Take the required four doctrinal courses at Urshan Graduate School of Theology (UGST) or complete UPCI Ministry Central Reading Requirements, if attending a graduate theological school other than UGST.
• Ordained by the United Pentecostal Church International. (Non-UPCI Ministers: Ordained by an organization whose doctrine agrees with the UPCI’s Articles of Faith).
• Familiar with the provisions of the UPCI Manual relating to ministerial licensing in Article VII and with the provisions for military chaplaincy in Article IX, Section 2 and 5, and OEE Policies, Section 8 Military Chaplaincy Policies.
• Letter of Endorsement from the chaplain candidate program from the UPCI Department of Chaplaincy Endorsing Agent. (If applicable)
• Letter of approval from the UPCI District Superintendent and sponsoring church pastor. (Non-UPCI candidates will provide a letter of approval from their ordaining Bishop or Superintendent and their local pastor).
• Two years full-time professional ministry experience (i.e. leading ministries, conducting worship services, baptisms, communion services, weddings, funerals, grief counseling, etc.).
• Willingness to facilitate and coordinate programs for individuals of all religious faiths.
• Citizen of the United States.
• Appropriate age for specific branch of service.
• Pass physical requirements and examination by the Armed Forces.
• Receive favorable National Agency Check (background and credit check.)
• Letter of Endorsement from the UPCI Department of Military Chaplaincy Endorsing Agent. (Contact UPCI Department of Military Chaplaincy for Ecclesiastical Endorsement Application).
• Successful interview with UPCI Department of Chaplaincy in Weldon Spring, MO. The candidate’s spouse is strongly recommended to meet with the Department of Chaplaincy for this interview.
• Signed Statement of Affirmation concerning UPCI Military Chaplain Endorsement Responsibilities and Requirements.
Step 2: Contact the UPCI Department of Chaplaincy at 636-229-7900.
Step 3: Fill out Ecclesiastical Endorsement Application.
Step 4: Contact Chaplain Recruiter