Requirements for the Endorsement of Muslim Chaplains

 

In order to endorse in the program of chaplaincy, there are few requirements that are essential for both male and female to follow:

  1. The applicant must meet minimum requirements of the specific branch of the military to which he or she is applying or minimum requirements of the Federal Bureau of Prisons.
  2. The applicant meets general educational requirement, including a 120-credit hour baccalaureate degree and a Master of Religious Practice or its equivalent with at least 72 graduate-level credit hours.
  3. The applicant has to demonstrate the moral integrity, maturity, and experience necessary to help him become an outstanding representative of his faith group in a pluralistic environment.
  4. The applicant must have an understanding and integration of Personal and Professional Boundaries.
  5. The applicant needs to provide the following documentation
    • Contact information.
    • Transcripts of all academic work
    • A 10-15 page typed essay answering the questions on the application. These questions (attached) are designed to reveal the character and values of the applicant.
    • Two reference letters from chaplains or imams concerning the applicant’s.
    • Character and ecclesiastical qualifications to serve in the capacity of chaplain or imam

Upon an initial review and approval, the applicant for endorsement as a chaplaincy candidate or as a chaplain comes before the ISNA Chaplaincy Board. If the candidate is deemed qualified but deficient in some area, additional documentation, reading, training, or other remedial action may be recommended and the vote deferred. In some cases when the Board determines that it is not possible for the applicant to correct deficiency in his application within a reasonable time frame, the Board may choose not to give the applicant an opportunity to correct inadequacies.

We also insist that the applicant is in touch with the chaplaincy recruiter of the agency involved, as requirements, especially age requirements and waivers may change according to the needs of each branch of the military for chaplains of different faiths. Different branches calculate age credit for previous military service differently.