CHAPLAIN
Answer the call part time in the Montana Army National Guard. As an Army Chaplain, you'll enter the service as an Officer.
You'll also attend the Chaplain Officer Basic Course
(CHOBC) www.usachcs.army.mil. This is an orientation course where
new Chaplains and candidates learn the fundamental military
tasks and common skills necessary for all Soldiers as well as
how to effectively perform religious support duties in a military environment. However, unlike other Officers, Chaplains do
not train with or use weapons.
History
The heritage of the United States Army Chaplaincy reaches far back into the dim recesses of history. In times of turmoil,trouble, and terror- mankind always looks to religion and religious figures for comfort. War is no exception. Both ancient and modern societies have turned to religion in periods of conflict. Communities have extended the comfort of religion to those serving in the heart of battle. From what we know of societies prior to written history, it is likely that priests and other religious figures petitioned gods and spirits for victory in war.
Chaplain Candidates
Qualified individuals who are enrolled full time in divinity school may be eligible to receive a direct commission as a
Second Lieutenant and serve as a "Chaplain Candidate."
Requirements for entry into the Chaplain Candidate program
include:
- Enrollment in or accepted into an accredited graduate program
- Currently a U.S. citizen (includes naturalized)
- Currently a full-time student working toward a graduate degree in theology consisting of 72 or more hours
- Can pass the military commission physical
- Meet Army height/weight standards
- Are eligible for security clearance
- Are less than 43 years of age at commissioning
The Benefits of the Montana Army National Guard
While serving as an Army Officer and Chaplain Candidate, you will receive:
- Monthly Drill Pay as an Officer
- Active Duty pay at current officer rank while attending the Chaplain Officer Basic Course
Currently Ordained Ministers
Qualified individuals who have completed Divinity School may be eligible to receive a direct commission as a Chaplain
(Captain) in the Army National Guard. Requirements for entry into the Chaplain program include:
- Less than 47 years of age if not prior service (up to 50 years of age if prior service)
- Qualified spiritually, morally, intellectually, and emotionally
- Sensitive to religious pluralism and able to provide for the free exercise of religion by all military personnel and
their family members - Possess a Bachelor's degree (not less than 120 semester hours)
- Possess an accredited Master's degree of not less than 72 semester hours (36 must be in Theology)
Serve God and Country
As a Chaplain with the Montana Army National Guard, you will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact on the spiritual growth and development of your unit. You will take charge of your Unit Ministry Team
consisting of yourself and a trained Army Chaplain Assistant (enlisted soldier). Together you will provide a wide range of religious services. You will be responsible for providing church services, counseling, and
spiritual guidance for the soldiers of your unit. To visit the
Montana Army National Guard's Chaplain website CLICK HERE.
For more information on Chaplain opportunities contact the AMEDD office by clicking HERE.
