Ecclesiastical Endorsement

What is an ecclesiastical endorsement?

Each denomination or endorsing body that is recognized by the Department of Defense provides endorsement for chaplains. This endorsement (also referred to as "ecclesiastical approval") is one of the most important items for any chaplain or chaplain candidate to secure before you can be considered for service in the chaplaincy.

For chaplains, the ecclesiastical endorsement states that:

  • The chaplain is an ordained minister or member in good standing of the respective denomination or body
  • The chaplain has completed a certain number of years of ministry experience
  • The denomination approves of the chaplain serving as a military chaplain

For chaplain candidates, the ecclesiastical approval is simply a certification that the candidate is pursuing fulfillment of the requirements for chaplaincy and is recognized as a member in good standing of the denomination or body. (Form DD2088 is for ecclesiastical endorsement.)

Without approval, you will not be commissioned or appointed to the chaplain candidate program.

Requirements vary, but most religious denominations will require that you:

  • Fill out the required paperwork
  • Provide documentation that you are enrolled in seminary
  • Be currently working toward ordination
  • Meet with your endorser for an interview

Please check with your specific denomination's endorsing body for details.

After meeting with your endorser and completing all the denominational requirements for ecclesiastical approval, the endorser will submit the approval to the Chief of Chaplains office. It is also recommended that you request a certified copy for your personal records. Your chaplain recruiter may also request that a copy be submitted directly to him. Your recruiter will not submit your packet for the chaplain candidate appointment board without your ecclesiastical approval being on record.

For a list of Ecclesiastical Endorsers, please visit:
http://www.defenselink.mil/prhome/mppchaplain_endorsements.html

Contact your local recruiter for more information.

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Note: Army National Guard programs and benefits are subject to change. For the latest information, please contact your local recruiter.