Chaplain Qualifications

A Law Enforcement Chaplain . . . 

1….must be a minister who is credentialed by a recognized ecclesiastical body and must be ordained or licensed, or must be a non-clergy appointed or commissioned by their Church Council/Board.

2.... must provide at application a letter of endorsement and support from local congregation where they serve.

3….must possess valid MN driver’s license and have immediate access to a personal transport vehicle.

4….must possess current individual medical and automobile insurance.

5….may not have a criminal conviction record for a major offense, crime of violence, nor have been involved in any offenses involving moral turpitude. The Executive Committee has the discretion to review all background information and to accept or reject candidates at any time on the basis of the facts of each case. Candidates will be fingerprinted and a criminal history will be conducted.

6….(newly appointed) must complete six months probation during which time they participate in 12 hours of contact with law enforcement, plus receive education in areas of Death Notification, Ride-a-long Protocol, Legal Liabilities & Confidentiality, and Ethics.

7….will participate in ride-a-long training period of a minimum of 30 hours during their first year of Chaplaincy and minimum 30 contact hours annually thereafter.

8….is encouraged to obtain ICPC (International Conference of Police Chaplains) Basic Training Level Certification or its equivalent within their first two years of chaplaincy.

9...must attend a minimum of six hours of continuing education annually in a subject related to the duties and responsibilities of a chaplain.

10.. .must be willing to become involved in training programs that would enhance one’s effectiveness in ministering to people in crisis and must be familiar with community medical, social services, spiritual and other helping resources.

11…must manifest a broad base of experience and professional ministry, emotional stability and personal flexibility.

12…must be respectful and considerate in approach to all people regardless of race, sex, creed or religion.

13…must be willing to be carefully supervised by the SLCLEC Executive Director or Officers of SLCLEC.