Military Chaplaincy

The story of Church of God Military Chaplaincy is one of the denomination's greatest.
  • During the Vietnam conflict Church of God chaplains served with distinction. One chaplain started "Sky Soldiers Christian Fellowships," whereby, hundreds were led to the Lord, baptized and linked to other Airborne soldiers for service and witness.
  • Church of God chaplains have been cited for their special talents and professional training. They serve in hospitals, CPE centers, family life ministries, CREDO and other special settings. Without sacrificing their deep Pentecostal roots, they are true professionals.
  • During Desert Shield/Storm, 17 Church of God chaplains ministered to Americans as well as captured Iraqi soldiers, baptized newly converted Marines, comforted a young Airman who received bad news from home, and served Holy Communion to men and women of many faiths.
  • 11 September 2001 vaulted military chaplaincy into the forefront:
    • Chaplain Robert Jenkins was in the Pentagon when it was ploughed into by the airliner.
    • Church of God chaplains served during Operation Enduring Freedom -- the liberation of Afghanistan from the Taliban and Al-Queda -- and continue to do so to this day.
    • The mobilization of virtually the entire U.S. military for Operation Iraqi Freedom has once again had chaplains serving communion and baptizing soliders going into battle. Click here for this unfolding story.
  • Church of God military chaplains' spouses are team-players. They teach Sunday School, head up chapel music programs, counsel and work in numerous military community programs.
  • The Church of God Theological Seminary provides specialized training for chaplaincy candidates.
  • Church of God military chaplaincy is not just for the U.S. armed forces -- military forces throughout the world are ministered to by Church of God chaplains.

Purpose and Goals

Qualifications
  • To place committed men and women in active and reserve chaplaincy service in Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps and Coast Guard.
  • To give these chaplains training and support so they may faithfully carry out their ministry under combat or other difficult circumstances.
  • Graduate of an accredited college and seminary
  • Pastoral experience
  • Commitment to his/her denomination

While doing seminary work, candidates may enter a special reserve program which includes commissioned officer service and training.

Other links of interest for Military Chaplaincy: