What is Chaplaincy?

Chaplaincy is a person-centered, needs-directed, servant-oriented ministry. Chaplaincy serves the spiritual and emotional needs of others. Chaplaincy is an extension of the local church reaching into our diverse and multi-cultural society providing spiritual care to people.

Who is a chaplain?

By definition, a chaplain is “an individual called by God to serve in a pluralistic environment ministering to persons in unique settings”. Chaplains, like other ministers, experience a definite call from God to serve. Without the call, a chaplain will not survive in the secular environment. He will “pack his bags” and leave the chaplain ministry at the first sign of conflict. A chaplain bases his life and ministry on God’s call. Survival in any environment for a chaplain depends on his faithfulness to God’s call. No greater calling exists!

Who can serve?

A Chaplain is male or female, a born-again, baptized believer in Christ, an active member of a local Baptist church, a person of proven integrity and trustworthiness and a person who knows and understands who he/she is.

What does a chaplain do?

A chaplain performs various ministries including visitation, building relationships, crisis intervention, giving emotional support and providing spiritual care. Chaplains are trained to listen and become the needed counselor. Chaplains know the power of prayer. Chaplains meet spiritual, emotional, social and, sometimes, physical needs. Ordained chaplains, also, minister through performing weddings and funerals.

Where do chaplains serve?

Chaplains serve in a secular environment; many times, in unique locations with unique people. Look at the Categories of Chaplaincy and you will see a multitude of possibilities. Chaplaincy ministry is only limited by the none-use of our creative minds.

Does being a chaplain require training?

Education directly relates to the commitment of a chaplain to serve the Lord to the best of his ability according to his personal skills.

How do you secure a chaplain position?

Chaplains determine chaplain needs and seek opportunities to serve in their local communities.

Chaplain credentialing?

Volunteer Chaplains Many entities such as county jails, law enforcement agencies and hospitals require chaplains to have an ecclesiastical endorsement. The SBC Chaplain’s Commission provides endorsement through the North American Mission Board. Some organizations may not require an endorsement, but the individual serving as chaplain may request an endorsement. Having an endorsement gives you credibility and places you in a relationship with the SBC Chaplaincy Team. Click here for information and application.

Florida Baptist Chaplains who have previously been certified by the Florida Baptist Convention, will need to secure endorsement through the North American Mission Board when their credentials expire.  Feel free to call Florida Baptist Chaplaincy at 904-596-3133 with any questions.

Career Chaplains If you are seeking employment as a chaplain, most employing institutions require an ecclesiastical endorsement as a condition of employment. We greatly encourage all career chaplains, even if not required, to go through the endorsement process with the North American Mission Board. Click here for information and application.

All Chaplains please complete the Florida Baptist Chaplain’s Network Application to be included in the Florida Baptist Chaplain’s Network.

What is the Florida Baptist Chaplains Network?

The Florida Baptist Chaplain’s Network is a network of chaplains currently serving, or pursuing a chaplain’s position, who have submitted a Florida Baptist Chaplain’s Network Application. Being a part of the Florida Baptist Chaplain’s Network provides opportunities for training through workshops and conferences, fellowship opportunities, and various resources.