Louisiana Chaplain Certification
- According to board-certified clinical chaplain David Plummer, a chaplain is a specialized minister who does not service a simple church but an institution. Therefore the chaplain is minister to the public, not a congregation. Most chaplains work within the institution in which he is chaplain. Many chaplains are therefore a resource to non-religious individuals who are not interested in the ministry side of chaplaincy, as well as religious individuals who are interested in the ministry of the chaplain. Chaplains can serve numerous institutions, including mental health facilities, hospitals and the military. Chaplains can be of any religious denomination that permits ministers of their faith.
- There are many requirements to become a certified chaplain in the state of Louisiana. Applicants must be 21 years old, be clear of any ethics violations as prescribed by the Board of the Association and have no criminal record (although the Board reserves the right to admit individuals with a criminal record on a case-by-case basis). Educationally, applicants must possess a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university and possess a Master of Divinity degree from an accredited seminary. Applicants must also supply evidence that they have completed four certified units of Clinical Pastoral Education by a nationally recognized agency, although this requirement can be substituted with a masters degree in a field of study such as pastoral care. Religiously, applicants must submit an endorsement stating they are in good standing with a nationally recognized religious denomination. Finally, applicants must pass an interview with the Board of the Association.
- There are costs associated with joining the Louisiana Chaplain's Association. There is a $252 application fee for the year 2010, as well as a yearly membership fee that changes per year.
To become a chaplain in Louisiana, one does not need to join the Louisiana Chaplain's Association, although it is Louisiana's official certification board for chaplains. There are many chaplains who are affiliated with other national associations, or chaplains within the military who must conform to specific military codes. - Chaplains in Louisiana often care for individuals in mental health facilities, correctional institutions, medical hospitals, addiction centers and hospice care.
- Helpful resources to become certified in the state of Louisiana include the Board of the Association. Each Board member can be contacted via telephone or email, and can answer any questions or address any concerns or reservations potential applicants may have.