Chaplain and Chaplain Candidates

Chaplain Officer Basic Leadership Course (CH-BOLC)

When you join the Army National Guard as a Chaplain, you will be a commissioned officer. If you join prior to ordainment, you will enter as a Chaplain Candidate.

In either case, your initial training will include CH-BOLC, where you'll learn fundamental military tasks and how to perform religious duties in a military environment.

CH-BOLC consists of three segments:

  • Phase I
    In this two-week course you'll learn Army writing and correspondence.
    • Chaplain Initial Military Training
      In this four-week resident course, you’ll learn core non-combatant skills such as map reading, military customs and courtesies, operations in field conditions and combat survival.
  • Phases II and III
    These two three-week courses will train you in Army-specific chaplain duties and applying your civilian skills to the Army National Guard environment.

Which religions are represented by chaplains in the National Guard?

All religions and belief systems are welcome in the Guard. To serve as a Guard chaplain, your faith group must have a federally recognized endorsing agency that can issue an ecclesiastical endorsement for you. Typically, you will work with Soldiers from your own faith.

What training will I need for chaplaincy in the National Guard?

Chaplains attend Chaplain Officer Basic Leadership Course, a three-month program at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. This course teaches you to apply your civilian chaplain skills to the Army environment, prepares you physically and mentally to be an officer in the Guard, and covers the complexities of the First Amendment, freedom of expression, counseling, mentoring and leadership. This course can be completed in one block or several phases over a 24-month period.

Can I join the Guard while I’m still in the seminary?

Yes. You don't have to wait till graduation to join the Army National Guard chaplaincy. Training to be a Chaplain in the Guard while simultaneously training for the civilian ministry lets you earn a substantial paycheck while greatly adding to your education and experience.

What are the commissioning prerequisites for chaplain candidacy?

You must be a U.S. citizen by birth or naturalized, pass a physical exam, and be between 21 and 42 years old. There are several educational requirements as well—be sure to look over the complete list of requirements for Army National Guard chaplain candidates.

What rank will I be?

This depends on your work experience and education level. Chaplains are officers in the Army National Guard and generally begin their career progression at the grade of 1LT (First Lieutenant). Advanced appointment as a CPT (Captain) may be possible under certain circumstances.

Will I carry a weapon?

No. Chaplains are non-combatant and therefore never carry weapons. The chaplain assistant provides security for the Unit Ministry Team.

What is the role of the chaplain in the Guard?

Chaplains are the spiritual leaders of the Army National Guard, providing emotional and religious support to Soldiers and their families. You'll perform religious ceremonies, offer guidance and help Soldiers adjust to their military lives and experiences.

For more information please contact the Officer Strength Management Office at 253-581-3030 or .