Army Chaplin

[NightFire]

I am prepairing to re-enlist in the Army. I would like to know if anyone knows how to get an ecclesiastical endorsement to become a chaplin for Wicca/paganism. Thje Army has recognized Wicca as a religion for a long time now, but there are no chaplins for it.

Any help would be appreciated.

[kblackthorne]

Talk to Phoenix Blue... I think he's AF, but he might be able to help.

[Phoenix Blue]

The Armed Forces Chaplains Board is still looking into recognizing a Pagan Organization that will be able to provide ecclesiastical endorsements. This is an ongoing process; but hopefully we're somewhere close to getting there.

I'd check with Covenant of the Goddess (http://www.cog.org/); as I understand, they're one of the organizations on the short list. Alternately, consult AR 165-1 (http://www.milpagan.org/RC/REGS/ar165-1.pdf) for a list of the Army's Distinguished Faith Group Leader requirements. Finally, check out the forums at the Military Pagan Network (http://www.milpagan.org/) - they're one of the best sources of information available for us military types. :)

[Margie]

Oohh Good luck. I'm active army myself and I think a Pagan Chaplain would be a relief! I've been to talk to the Chaplain and he was pretty cool and all but I felt like I was kidding him and myself since he didn't know and I didn't tell him I'm Pagan. He was nice but I think I would've felt much better talking to a Pagan chaplain. As for becoming one, I'm pretty sure you have to be an officer-for which you would need some type of degree. From there I really don't know but you might want to talk to an Army Recruiter about it. Good Luck!

[Phoenix Blue]

:) Keep in mind that Chaplains are Chaplains, and are required to assist members and dependents of all faiths, not just their own.

[FlamedLilly]

This is a good thing. Being AF myself. I've learned that there's always a way in the military you just have to have the right connections.