Veteran Affairs
Veterans face specialized challenges based on the sacrifice they have given to our country, and Apostolic Chaplains serve an important role of influence to them. Apostolic Chaplains point to Christ’s comfort and peace to those dealing with physical, mental, emotional, or spiritual hurts. Apostolic Chaplains serve as a pastor within VA hospitals, allowing them the opportunity to help patients and families.
Routine duties: lead worship services and Bible studies, conduct funerals, counsel veterans and families, lead marriage and family classes, act as a liaison between VA hospital and civilian community.
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 Department of Veterans Affairs 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 paragraph 4, and OEE Policies, Section 9 Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Chaplaincy Policies.
• Letter of approval from the UPCI district superintendent and local 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.
• Pass physical requirements and examination.
• Receive favorable National Agency Check (background and credit check.)
• Signed Statement of Affirmation concerning UPCI Military Chaplain Endorsement Responsibilities and Requirements.
• Apply for ecclesiastical endorsement for veterans affairs chaplaincy through the UPCI Department of Military and Veterans Affairs Chaplaincy (DMAVAC). Contact UPCI DMAVAC for application at 636-229-7959 or [email protected].
• Successful interview with the UPCI DMAVAC in Weldon Spring, MO. It is strongly recommended that the candidate’s spouse also meet with the DMAVAC for this interview.
• Letter of endorsement for the Veterans Affairs Chaplaincy from the UPCI DMAVAC Military Chaplaincy Endorsing Agent. (Contact UPCI DMAVAC for Ecclesiastical Endorsement Application).
Step 2: Contact the UPCI Department of Chaplaincy at 636-229-7900.
Step 3: Fill out Ecclesiastical Endorsement Application.
Step 4: After Endorsement approval, consult USAJOBS for Job announcement and to submit application and required supporting documentation.