Conviértete en capellán/ana

An Episcopal chaplain is someone who prays with and beside others, offers pastoral counseling and sacraments, and—perhaps most distinctively—provides a ministry of inclusive presence across all identity lines. As Episcopalians, our chaplains can care for everyone, without restrictions. We offer the richness of our ancient liturgical rhythms, beautiful prayers, and a deep grounding in sacrament and ritual.

There is currently a great need for those who may feel called to explore a vocation in non-parish settings like the military, prisons, or hospitals. Whether you are already a priest or deacon, studying for ordination, or, in some cases, a lay member in good standing, our Armed Forces and Federal Ministries Office offers numerous pathways to become a chaplain across various branches of the military and federal ministries.

Most Episcopal chaplains must complete a two-sided process—with the church and with the federal government. Our office is here to help walk you through the steps. Explore your area(s) of interest below.

Military chaplaincy: Active duty and reserves

Our military chaplains, who are ordained priests, serve directly alongside U.S. service members in the Air Force, Army, Navy, and Army National Guard. Through chaplain candidate programs, Episcopal seminary students can gain experience with Air Force, Army, Navy, and Army National Guard chaplaincy while working toward ordination.

Volunteer civilian chaplaincy

Chaplaincy roles are available for priests interested in serving the volunteer members of the Civil Air Patrol and Coast Guard Auxiliary.

Veterans and prison chaplaincy

Chaplains working for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Federal Bureau of Prisons are ordained priests who offer pastoral care, counseling, spiritual support, and more to veterans and their families, and to those who are incarcerated.

Healthcare chaplaincy

For ordained or lay ministers interested in non-federal healthcare chaplaincy, The Episcopal Church helps facilitate the ecclesiastical healthcare endorsements required by professional chaplain organizations.