Home of the 15th STB UMT

Authority. As can be imagined, many faith traditions are represented by the hundreds of thousands of soldiers who serve the Armed Forces. Although chaplains are endorsed as clergy of a distinct faith group, chaplains do not represent the faith group according to a soldier-faith tradition ratio. Due to a great need for chaplains verses those who were applying, the Army abandoned the ratio structure to better care for soldiers.

The Armed Forces Chaplain Board (AFCB) officially provides for collaborative ministry to the Armed Forces and works as the government body regulating policy to include promoting and maintaining "a harmonious relationship with civilian clergy and distinctive faith groups." The AFCB accomplishes this mission through a relationship with the National Conference on Ministry to the Armed Forces (NCMAF - pronounced nick-maaf). The NCMAF is a civilian organization whose members are official representatives of all major faith communities. As a point of contact between more than 220 distinct faith traditions and the military, each member is an endorser for the faith group and endorses chaplains from those faith groups. The NCMAF actively "recruits, endorses, and provides oversight for clergy-persons who desire to serve as chaplains in any one of the branches of our armed forces." Although endorsement for chaplaincy is possible outside of NCMAF, most endorsers are a part of this umbrella organization.

Assemblies of God. I am officially and proudly endorsed by the General Council of the Assemblies of God. Headquartered in Springfield, MO, the Assemblies of God currently endorses roughly 250 chaplains for military and VA duties. The Assemblies of God formed in Hot Springs, AR during a 1914 "general council" of clergy and laity. In 1916, a need arose for a written agreement on doctrinal issues and so, the 16 Fundamental Truths took shape. This basic and simple document "remains virtually unchanged and continues to provide a sound basis for the Fellowship, giving a firm position on vital doctrines."¹

Thank You! At this point, I reflect on the many wonderful people I know with Assemblies of God affiliation. I've experienced great support, encouragement, and friendship with Assemblies of God chaplains of all branches (even the Air Force!), retired chaplains, pastors, fellow church-goers, professors, General Council and Southern Missouri District leaders and staff, and other friends. God continues to amaze me with the blessings of such a support network. It's amazing what the family of God has the potential to do, and relationships with you have meant a great deal to me. Thanks!