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FAQ Clergy

How do I become a CAP chaplain?

First, you must meet all requirements for senior membership in CAP.  This includes submitting a fingerprint card for a background check.  For more information about senior membership, please visit our Adult FAQ page.  Join as a Senior Member and then apply to be a CAP Chaplain – contact the Wing Chaplain for a chaplain application.

CAP Chaplains must have an Ecclesiastical Endorsement from a National Conference on Ministry for the Armed Forces (a Department of Defense official).  They must also hold a Bachelor’s Degree from an institution listed in the Higher Education Directory.

Three years of graduate professional study accredited by Association of Theological Schools is also required.  Waivers may be granted for clergy lacking an accredited graduate degree if they have a minimum of five years full-time pastoral experience.

 

How do I become a Character Development Officer?

First, you must meet all requirements for senior membership in CAP.  This includes submitting a fingerprint card for a background check.  For more information about senior membership, please visit our Adult FAQ page.  You join as a Senior Member and then apply to be a CAP Character Development Officer – contact the Wing Chaplain for an application.

Character Development Officers have an Associate Degree or minimum of 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) attained from a college or university listed in the Higher Education Directory.  You must also obtain a recommendation from a local pastor or other religious official.  Finally, you will be interviewed by your Wing Chaplain.

 

I am a member of the clergy, but I’m not a CAP member. Can I still volunteer?

Visiting clergy may work with local CAP Squadrons for a 6 month period.  In order to volunteer in this capacity, you must receive approval from the Wing Chaplain and be escorted at all times by a CAP Senior Member.

 

Will I work with other faith groups in this program?

Yes.  CAP Chaplains provide for free exercise of religion for all CAP members.

 

What roles will a CAP chaplain fill within a wing/squadron?

Chaplains advise the commander on ethical and moral issues.  They also provide for religious observances and pastoral care.  CAP Chaplains also coordinate moral leadership for CAP Cadets. Certified Chaplains may also provide emergency ministry.

 

What roles will a CAP Character Development Officer fill within a wing/squadron?

Character Development Officers support chaplains by providing character development for cadets.  CDOs also assist chaplains with worship and emergency services ministries.

 

How much time is involved to fulfill CAP chaplain and Character Development Officer responsibilities?

Our squadron meets weekly for about 2 hours.  There are also periodic actual and practice emergency services missions, special activities, conferences, and educational events.

 

Does CAP enforce age restrictions for chaplain and Character Development Officer appointments?

Senior members must be at least 18 years of age or a member of the US Armed Forces.  There is no maximum age limit and we even have CAP members who are still active in their 90s.

 

Want to support CAP, but don’t have the time?

Many citizens want to support the great work of CAP, but simply don’t have the time.  You can still help by becoming a member of the National Patron Squadron.  Visit our donation page for more details.

 

I’m ready to join! What’s next?

If you are from Clarion County, simply call or email the Squadron 504 Commander using the contact details on our Homepage.  If you are not from the area, please visit the "How to Join" page at capmembers.com for a step-by-step guide to joining CAP.  You'll also find a link to the online unit locator to find a CAP unit near you.

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