Ordained Chaplains

The US National Conference, during its June 2001 meeting, adopted the following chapter, which adds a new category of minister: ordained chaplains

Description

Ordained chaplains are members of the United Brethren church who have been called by God and are pursuing employment as professional members of the chaplaincy. They provide pastoral care for persons of diverse backgrounds in physical, mental, spiritual, and social need in diverse settings. Their call has been confirmed by the church through a process of examination, education, and accountability. Ordination is the third step in a process which began with the local conference license and continued with the annual conference license.

Chaplains are eligible for service on any conference and denominational boards or commissions. They may also serve as ministerial delegates to General Conference provided they meet the stated requirements for service in that capacity.

Qualifications

To become a candidate for ordination as chaplain, an annual conference minister must do the following:

1. Earn a Master of Divinity or a Master of Theology degree from an accredited seminary (ATS approved), or the Master of Arts in Christian Ministry degree from the Huntington College Graduate School of Christian Ministries.

2. Complete four units (1600 hours) of Clinical Pastoral Education in an institution accredited by the American College of Pastoral Education.

3. Demonstrate a level of faithfulness and competency which warrants consideration for licentiate status.

Ordination Procedure

The following procedure is established for the ordination of chaplains.

1. Request by the Annual Conference Minister

After holding an annual conference license for a minimum of two years, individuals may submit a request to the conference Ministerial Licensing and Ordination Commission for consideration for the office of ordained chaplain in the Church of the United Brethren in Christ.

2. Examination by the Ministerial Licensing and Ordination Commission

Applicants shall be examined by the Ministerial Licensing and Ordination Commission of the annual conference. The following are required.

a. Five letters of reference. These letters should give evidence of the applicantÌs marriage and family relationship, interpersonal relationship and social skill, and faithfulness in Christian living. They should be obtained from the following individuals:

(1) Two Clinical Pastoral Education supervisors.
(2) The pastor of the local United Brethren church the candidate attends.
(3) A layperson serving in leadership at the local United Brethren church the candidate attends.
(4) A friend or relative.

b. A copy of his/her academic transcripts

c. Written responses to the following:

(1) Describe your conversion experience, journey of faith, and call to ministry.

(2) Do you believe the Bible is the Word of God and that it reveals the only way for our salvation? How do you support your belief?

(3) What do you believe regarding the nature of humanity and the individualÌs need for salvation?

(4) What is the work of the Holy Spirit in the life of the believer? How is this demonstrated in your life?

(5) What do you believe regarding the nature of humanity and the individualÌs need for salvation?

(6) Demonstrate a proficiency with a plan of salvation, and identify individuals you have personally led to Christ.

(7) Will you agree to abide by the official actions of your conference and denomination in all matter relating to your ministry?

(8) How will you function as an ordained United Brethren chaplain while working with those of other faith backgrounds?

(9) What are your future plans for ministry inasmuch as they pertain to ordination?

(10) Have you ever pled guilty to or been convicted of any crime?

(11) Have you ever been charged with child neglect or abuse?

(12) Has your driverÌs license ever been suspended or revoked?

(13) Do you use illegal drugs, beverage alcohol, or tobacco in any form?

(14) Are your marriage and family relationships in harmony with the teachings of the Scripture as interpreted by this denomination?

3. Ordination by the Annual Conference

Following the examination, the examining committee shall report its findings to the annual conference and make any recommendations it deems consistent with its findings. Pending a favorable recommendation from the examining committee, the annual conference may choose to grant ordination status.

Loss of License

The annual conference shall have the authority to revoke the credentials of any chaplains whose lives and ministries are inconsistent with the expectations detailed in the Discipline. Should they desire, chaplains shall be granted an opportunity for a hearing before final action is taken.

Ordained Chaplains from Other Denominations

Ordained chaplains from other denominations who seek to be ordained by the Church of the United Brethren in Christ must meet these conditions:

1. Demonstrate that their ordinations are still considered to be in good standing from their denomination of origin.

2. Demonstrate a favorable standing with the American College of Chaplains.

3. Complete the course in United Brethren Church history.

4. Hold a Master of Divinity or Master of Theology degree from an accredited seminary, or the Master of Arts in Christian Ministry degree from the Huntington College Graduate School of Christian Ministries.

When they have met all of the stated requirements, their previous ordinations will be recognized at the commissioning service of the annual conference.

Transferring to Another Conference

Chaplains may transfer their credentials to other United Brethren conferences. To do so, they must notify the conference superintendents of both conferences in writing. Both conferences must then approve the transfer by vote of the annual conference. These votes must occur within any twelve-month period. The credentials will not be transferred until both conferences have consented.

Continuing Education for Elders

All chaplains are required to complete CEUs annually as offered by the American College of Chaplains and National Association of Catholic Chaplains.

Expectations of Chaplains

In addition to the general expectations of all ministers and members in the Church of the United Brethren in Christ, elders are expected to faithfully fulfill the following:

1. Annual Reporting

All chaplains must file an annual report of their activities with the conference superintendent.

2. Accountability

Since this license is granted by the annual conference, ordained chaplains are accountable to the annual conference of which they are members.

3. Ministerial Service

Chaplains shall work under the direction of their conference superintendents and bishop. They are authorized to officiate at funerals and weddings and to administer the ordinances of baptism and communion. They may supply pulpits when ministers are ill or on vacation. They may serve as associates, but not as the senior pastor, of any congregation.