So, you’re in seminary and you believe you are called to Chaplain Ministry. First and most importantly, affirm your calling because this ministry is not for the weak in mind, body, or spirit. Second, keep up on your studies and learn what you can about Christian Counseling. If offered, add CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education) to your learning contract.
Hopefully, you are already part of a Pentecostal Church of God. If you haven’t yet, kindly connect with a local PCG Bishop, Pastor or chaplain so that you can develop pastoral skills and experiences that will enrich the ministry you enter, upon completion of seminary: Being involved with a local church – even pastoring one prior to accession into the Chaplaincy – is usually required. Regardless of the direction you go, in the PCG we feel that your true potential comes through quality mentoring and coaching.
If you are not a Licensed or Ordained Minister with the PCG, now is the time to get started!
There are Three Steps that could take two to five years for completion depending on previously acquired studies or experience. The PCG minster’s credentials are provided successively as Exhorter, License, and Ordination. License and Ordination Series may be done on line at pcg.org or through distance learning with hard copy books and manual.
Your PCG Pastor or Bishop can assist you in the process that includes an Application and appropriate supplemental Forms. The Application differs depending on your circumstances.
Also, you can communicate directly with the PCG Chaplain Endorser in the Credential Application process. Previous Applicants should submit an Application for Reinstatement or Application for Promotion. Expect some processing fees initially, and some additional costs for materials within each step along the way.
This may seem like a lot to do simultaneously with other studies, so learning to manage your time will be a good exercise. Requirements don’t slowdown in the Chaplaincy; and the PCG does not take lightly
its responsibility to equip and train its ministers for the work of the Gospel. As an Exhorter, Licensed, or Ordained Minister, you can work alongside your local pastor and gain valuable experience and qualification for work in the Chaplaincy. More details can be found at pcg.org or wearepcg.org.
Seminarians having completed at minimum, their Exhorter program with the PCG, one year of their Master of Divinity (or related degree in the field of Religion), having entered a Chaplain Candidate Program, and signed a letter of commitment to the PCG Chaplain Commission, may qualify for a Scholarship each semester while maintaining a 3.0 grade point average. A Scholarship Application and Statement of Commitment are available from the PCG Endorser’s Office.
