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Continuing Education
Sexual Misconduct
Other Spiritual Expressions and Movements
III. WORSHIP GUIDELINES
IV. APPENDICES
The Episcopal Church, United States of America, functions at three main levels of organization: national, diocesan and local. It is a constituent member of the worldwide Anglican Communion. The dioceses are grouped into nine Provinces. Although each level has certain independent internal and jurisdictional functions, all three levels are legally and morally interrelated.
The Anglican Church existed in Colonial America and for a decade after the American Revolution with no local episcopate. Numerous requests for a resident bishop went unheeded by the Church of England, which meant that no local confirmation or ordination were possible. The absence of an episcopacy, and consequently fewer priests, caused greater lay initiative and responsibility in the American Church than in its English counterpart. When the American Revolution separated Anglican congregations from the mother Church, they responded by forming a Church independent of the Church of England. This became a model for the formation of other autonomous Anglican bodies, which together now form the worldwide Anglican Communion.
A primary obstacle to this goal was the English requirement that a bishop take an oath of allegiance to the supremacy of the British throne. Connecticut churches finally sent the Reverend Samuel Seabury to Scotland, where a small but independent Episcopal Church existed complete with bishops. Consequently, Seabury was consecrated bishop in 1784. Three years later, after English law had been changed to allow such consecrations by the Church of England, William White of Pennsylvania and Samuel Provoost of New York were also consecrated Bishops.
Conventions in 1785 and 1786 laid the groundwork for a General Convention in 1789 at which the Book of Common Prayer and the Constitution were adopted, establishing the doctrine, discipline and worship of the Protestant Episcopal Church in the United States of America.
The Presiding Bishop is the executive head of the Church. The Episcopal Church’s Canons designate him as Chief Pastor and Primate (Canon I, Title 2.4). The Constitution, adopted originally in 1789, and the Canons set forth the authority and jurisdiction of bishops, establish requirements for the acceptance and ordination of clergy, provide for General Convention and the admission of dioceses and their basic structure, define parish structural requirements and the responsibilities of priests, and set standards for the worship of this Church. The Book of Common Prayer, adopted in 1789, and revised most recently in 1979, sets forth the doctrine of the Church and the forms of worship required of member congregations.
General Convention, which meets every three years, consists of the House of Bishops and House of Deputies. The House of Bishops, as its name suggests, is comprised of the bishops of the Church. It is this house’s responsibility to elect the Presiding Bishop of the Church, subject to confirmation by the House of Deputies. The House of Deputies consists of clerical and lay representatives chosen by each diocese. Executive Council has administrative responsibility for the program of General Convention between its triennial sessions.
General Convention is also responsible for the program of the Church and its overseas and domestic mission. Ministry to personnel in the armed services, federal healthcare institutions, and federal prisons is thus the responsibility of General Convention rather than individual dioceses. General Convention has vested that responsibility in the Presiding Bishop’s Bishop Suffragan for Chaplaincies who is elected by the House of Bishops.
There are nearly 80 million members of the Anglican household of 38 self-governing Churches in a total of 164 countries. After the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Churches, the Anglican Communion is arguably the third most widespread group of Christians. The Anglican Communion has created a number of institutions that have advanced cohesion and communication. The oldest and most important of these is the Lambeth Conference. The churches of the Anglican Communion are linked by affection and common loyalty. They are in full communion with the See of Canterbury, and thus the Archbishop of Canterbury, in his person, is a unique focus of Anglican unity. He calls the once-a-decade Lambeth Conference, is chairman of meetings of the heads of the self-governing Churches, and is President of the Anglican Consultative Council.
“Declaration of the Episcopal Church’s Understanding of Ministry to the Armed Services”
The Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries (the Rt. Rev. George
E. Packard) and twelve chaplains, representing all branches
of the U.S. military, met in Washington, DC in January
2001 to compose the following statement of understanding
of Episcopal Church ministry within the military context.
The purpose of the statement is to clarify the parameters
of the role of Episcopal Church chaplains. Chaplains
are urged to utilize the five-paragraph “Declaration”
when interpreting to new commanders and /or supervisory
chaplains their role as priests serving in the uniformed
service.
Clergy of the Episcopal Church are ordained to fill the roles of pastor, teacher and priest. The Episcopal Church expects its chaplains to fulfill those roles in as broad and inclusive a manner as possible while remaining faithful to the Church's historical, theological and liturgical roots in both Roman Catholicism and the English Reformation.
As pastors, Episcopal military chaplains love and serve all of the people among whom we work. We preach and teach the faith of the Church in Protestant and other services as opportunity permits, remaining flexible in form yet consistent in upholding the traditions of the Episcopal Church. Caring for all and committed to the free exercise of religion by all we cooperate with chaplains of all faith groups to ensure access for the free exercise of religion and religious accommodation within the constraints of military service. In this way, we try to feed those of God's people whose spirituality, theology or liturgical practice diverges from ours.
For Episcopalians, the Eucharist is the central act of worship. All baptized persons are welcome to join us in this sacred mystery. We gather in community to be nourished in Word and Sacrament. The Bible, reason and tradition inform and shape the Eucharist through which we have communion with our Lord and by which we are invigorated for mission.
Present divisions in the body of Christ cause us much pain. We look for the day when all are one in Christ. Until then, we live with those divisions and the unavoidable, resulting constraints. Sacramentally, Episcopal chaplains can only function in accordance with the Book of Common Prayer, the Canons of the Episcopal Church and the guidance of the Episcopal Bishop Suffragan for the Armed Services. Only clergy from Churches in communion with the Church of England can conduct Episcopal services.
We, the undersigned Priests and Bishop of the Episcopal Church who minister to the Armed Services, are thankful for the ministry entrusted to us and ever mindful of our need for God's grace and mercy for ourselves and those to whom we minister in this challenging, pluralistic environment.
Composed and signed by:
Bishop George E. Packard, Chaplains S. Michael Bell, Robert W. Eldridge, Malcolm Roberts III, Richard D. Oberheide, Dedre Ann Bell, Gary L. Parker, Roger D. Kappel, Carl M. Andrews, Gerald J. Blackburn, James B. Magness, George M. Clifford III, Reese M. Hutcheson |
Washington National Cathedral
Feast of the Confession of St. Peter the Apostle
In the Year of our Lord, 2001
Chronology of Bishops of this Office
Prior to Bishop
Packard’s installation as the Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries, the bishops of this Office were
referred to as “Bishop for the Armed Forces.”
Arnold M. Lewis 1965-1970
Clarence E. Hobgood 1971-1978
Charles L. Burgreen 1978-1989
Charles L. Keyser 1990-1999
George E. Packard 2000-200?
II. MINISTRY GUIDELINES
General Expectations of Chaplains
Clergy Will Remain in Good Standing
Vocation and canonical residence.
Clergy in this episcopacy remain canonically residence in their home diocese while serving as chaplains and are encouraged to maintain good relations with that bishop and diocese. The context for a chaplain’s ministry may be the armed services, a healthcare institution or federal prison, merchant marine seamen’s ministry, etc., but chaplains are first and foremost members of a clericus and therefore members of their diocese. One’s vocation and not the context for living out that vocation must define the chaplain’s identity. Chaplains who place their role as a military officer, federal employee, etc., above their identity as a priest or deacon compromise their vocation and their faithfulness to Christ.
Submission of Required Reports.
Semi-annual reports must be submitted to the Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries on 30 June and 31
December using the form in Appendix 5, Chaplain Reports,
which is also available online. The chaplain shall
send a copy of the report to the bishop of the diocese
in which the chaplain is canonically resident and
to the bishop in whose diocese the chaplain is currently
serving. Chaplains are expected to keep the Bishop
Suffragan appraised of changes in status, address,
rank and assignment using the Roll Call Report, Appendix
5 and available online, as those changes occur.
Attendance at Required Conferences.
The Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries holds
periodic conferences in various locations. All chaplains
are expected to attend one of these conferences each
year. Financial assistance to cover travel costs and
conference fees may be available from the Bishop Suffragan
if chaplains are unable to obtain funded travel orders
from their command. Attendance is a requirement for
continued endorsement except when impossible for operational
reasons or when excused by the Bishop.
Faithfulness to Episcopal Identity and Ordination
Episcopal chaplains are expected to remain faithful to their Episcopal identity and ordination while embracing the broader opportunities for ministry of chaplaincy. In other words, chaplains are expected to deliver quality ministry with the traditional Anglican emphases in liturgical, sacramental, and pastoral ministry. The Chaplaincy Service of the British Royal Navy aptly describes the chaplain’s role as “friend and advisor to all.” The distinctive Anglican heritage fits well with the demands of chaplaincy for a pluralistic ministry that embodies genuine cooperation without compromise.
Clergy serving as chaplains are strongly encouraged to make their spiritual and physical health, and that of their families a priority. The priority of wellness for chaplains should embrace at a minimum the practice of the following disciplines:
A spiritual discipline/rule of life to include at least one daily office, prayer, annual retreats, and, when possible, a spiritual director;
Physical health through a good diet, proper healthcare, and regular exercise;
Relational health through adequate time for self, spouse, children, friends, etc.
Open and Honest Communication between the Bishop Suffragan, Staff and Endorsees
The bishop is chief pastor, teacher and symbol of the unity of this ministry with the Episcopal Church and with Christ. Open and honest communication between the Bishop Suffragan, the chaplaincy staff, endorsees, and those to whom they minister is encouraged and expected.
The Constitution of this Church, Article II, Section 7, and its Canons, Title III, Canon 16.4, provide the Constitutional and Canonical basis for this ministry. While the policies and procedures presented herein are intended to assist Civil Air Patrol chaplains, Veterans Affairs (VA) and healthcare chaplains, and Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBP) chaplains, much of the information will be particularly appropriate to those Episcopal clergy serving in military and other chaplaincies of this episcopacy.
Suffragan to Presiding Bishop.
Under the provisions of
Article II, Section 7 of the Constitution, the House
of Bishops elects the Bishop for Federal Ministries
as a Suffragan to the Presiding Bishop. The Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries serves on the personal staff
of the Presiding Bishop.
Duties of the Bishop Suffragan for Chaplaincies.
As chief pastor and overseer,
the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries provides
Episcopal leadership, supervision, and pastoral support
to Episcopal chaplains and laity of the armed services
of the United States (active, reserve, National Guard
and Civil Air Patrol), the Veterans Affairs, healthcare
institutions, Federal Bureau of Prisons, and all other
assigned chaplaincies. For some chaplains ministering
in non-military hospitals and prisons, these episcopal
functions are performed in conjunction with the diocesan
bishop in whose jurisdiction the institution is geographically
located.
Canonical Residence of Clergy.
Clergy of this Church serving
within the episcopacy of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal
Ministries shall retain canonical residence in a diocese
of this Church in accordance with Canon III, 16.4(b).
Chaplains who minister within
the episcopacy of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal
Ministries shall execute the ministries of their office
in accordance with the Constitution and Canons as
adopted by the most recent General Convention and
the Book of Common Prayer.
Register of official acts.
Each member of the clergy
in charge of a worshipping community is required by
Canon III.14.3 to maintain a register of official
acts for the recording of all Baptisms, Confirmations
(or canonical equivalents), Marriages and Burials.
All chaplains endorsed by the Bishop Suffragan for
Federal Ministries are considered to be in charge
of a worshipping community with respect to their ministry.
For the official register and in accordance with the
canons, all such acts shall be reported to the Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries in a timely fashion
utilizing the appropriate report forms found in the
Appendices to this manual or online.
Relationship of Chaplains to Local Diocese.
Military chaplains will establish
contact with the local diocesan bishop within whose
diocese their military or facility is located as soon
as possible after arrival. Military chaplains may
not function in a local diocese unless licensed to
do so by the local diocesan bishop or without approval
by the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries. If
so licensed, military chaplains will coordinate with
local parish clergy when exercising ministry outside
the military installation or governmental facility.
Establishment of Parishes Prohibited.
Nothing in these guidelines
shall be interpreted to suggest that chaplains and
the worshipping communities that they serve have the
authority to establish a parish of this Church on
a military installation or other governmental facility.
Separate Episcopal worshipping communities within
the episcopacy of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal
Ministries will not select wardens nor establish vestries.
Chaplains are expected to conduct public worship -
especially the Eucharist - frequently for members
of this constituency, to identify the appropriate
lay leadership of the community that will enhance
a full spiritual life, and to encourage Episcopalians
to gather regularly as a worshipping community.
Ecclesiastical Endorsement
The ministry of chaplaincy
to the Armed Services of the United States (active,
reserve, National Guard, Civil Air Patrol), to Veterans
Affairs Medical Centers, the Federal Bureau of Prisons,
etc., is supported by endorsed clergy and authorized
representatives from the broad range of religious beliefs
within the population of the United States. Each chaplain
is endorsed for one of those specific ministries by
a recognized religious body. The Bishop Suffragan for
Federal Ministries is the recognized endorser for the
Episcopal Church and authorized by the Church to fulfill
that responsibility. The policies and procedures delineated
below are consistent with the provisions of Title III,
Canon 16.4, of the Episcopal Church. The web site of
the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries contains
additional information on how
to become a military chaplain .
Procedures for Chaplains
The process leading to
ministry in any of the chaplaincies within the episcopacy
of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries consists
of three sequential phases: action by a diocese; ecclesiastical
endorsement; and employment by a military service,
federal agency, etc.
Diocesan Action.
Any ordained minister of this Church who feels called to the chaplaincy, or who wishes information regarding this ministry, should first discuss this vocation with their diocesan bishop in order to receive the bishop’s encouragement to seek ecclesiastical endorsement for this ministry.
Ecclesiastical Endorsement
Application
for Endorsement. Upon
receiving diocesan encouragement, submit a completed
Application for Ecclesiastical Endorsement, Appendix
1, to the Office of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal
Ministries. Consultation with the Office of the
Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries is encouraged.
The Office of the Bishop Suffragan offers information
and assistance both with discerning vocation and
the application process.
Recommendation from Diocesan Bishop. When
the formal application has been received, the Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries will correspond
directly with the appropriate diocesan bishop to
obtain that bishop’s formal approval and concurrence
to have the applicant represent the Church and diocese
in this ministry.
Decision on Endorsement.
Decisions on endorsement
by the Episcopal Church are vested solely in the
Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries. At the
discretion of Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries,
the decision making process may involve one or
more interviews between the applicant and the
Bishop Suffragan, staff or others. Requests for
additional information or consultations may be
also initiated. All proceedings are confidential
and handled as expeditiously as possible.
Military Service
or Federal Agency Employment. The
detailed requirements and procedures for making application
for the chaplaincy vary among the armed services and
other agencies. In all cases, however, the service or
agency will consider only applicants who have received
ecclesiastical endorsement from a recognized endorser.
Information concerning the various chaplaincy programs
may be obtained directly from the armed service, agency
or from Office of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
website and staff. Granting of ecclesiastical endorsement
by the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries authorizes
one of the armed services or other agencies to accept
an application from an Episcopal clergyperson. Ecclesiastical
endorsement does not guarantee acceptance of the person
for employment by the armed service or other agency.
Certification for Contract and Local Hire Chaplains
From time to time requests
are received for civilian and/or retired military clergy
to serve Episcopalians on military bases, in federal
correctional institutions, in Veterans Affairs medical
centers, etc. The Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
represents the Episcopal Church when such a request
is made and approves certification of the minister.
Requirements. Clergy
must be in good standing with the diocese in which they
are canonically resident, under age 72, successfully
pass a background check with respect to moral misconduct,
confirm a willingness to serve in this capacity, and
be endorsed by Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
before beginning their ministry.
Process
Request. The
initial request for assistance in serving Episcopalians
at the facility shall originate with the Installation
Staff Chaplain/Command Chaplain/Post Chaplain/Chaplain
in Charge. This request shall be directed to the
Office of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries.
Include the name of the individual, address and
diocese (if a specific individual is requested),
and a brief explanation of any existing Episcopal
Church related program and plans for utilizing the
contract/local hire chaplain.
Coordination
with Local Diocese. The
Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries will consult
with the local diocesan bishop to establish the
canonical standing and status of the person requested.
If no specific individual is requested, the Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries will consult with
the local diocesan bishop to identify potential
candidates for the position, forwarding names to
the senior chaplain at the institution or installation
desiring to contract with, or hire, someone to minister
to Episcopalians.
Authorization. Upon
approval of the local diocesan bishop, the Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries may authorize
this person to minister to Episcopalians under
the supervision of the requesting chaplain for
a period not to exceed one year. Approval shall
expire each All Saints Day. Any annual request
for renewal must be submitted no later than 1
October. The Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
approval of requests for renewal, when granted,
will commence on All Saints Day. Authorization
to minister to Episcopalians is at the sole discretion
of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
and may be withdrawn by the Bishop Suffragan for
Federal Ministries at any time.
Reports and Records. An
annual report, using the form online or in Appendix
5, shall be submitted at the end of the institution’s
fiscal year to Office of the Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries via the sponsoring Chaplain.
All records of sacramental acts and other canonically
required records shall be recorded in Office of
the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries using
the forms in the Appendices (Appendix 2, Record
of Baptism; Appendix 4, Record of Confirmation;
Appendix 8, Record of Marriage/Declaration of
Intention; Appendix 9, Re-marriage Petition Form).
Remuneration. Remuneration
will be as authorized by the branch of service,
hospital, Federal Corrections Service, etc. Contributions
to a priest’s discretionary fund that are
in any way linked to a priest’s ministry
under the authority of the Bishop Suffragan for
Federal Ministries are prohibited without the
specific permission of the Bishop Suffragan for
Federal Ministries.
Offerings.
Offerings taken during
worship shall be in accordance with the directives
of institution in which the service is held.
Access to facility.
Access to the institution will be in accordance
with the institution’s security policies.
Seminarian Candidates For Military Chaplaincy
All three branches of the Armed Services have established a Chaplain Candidate Program (CCP) designed to offer seminary students an opportunity to explore, without obligation, chaplain ministry in the military. The Bishop Suffragan for Chaplaincies is authorized by the Department of Defense to recommend candidates for this summer program after receiving concurrence from the bishop of the diocese in which the person is canonically resident. While the seminarian may apply for CCP during his/her first year, it is best that he/she actually attend during the summer following the middler year.
Qualifications and requirements
Qualifications
• Be
a postulant or candidate for holy orders
• Be
accepted by or enrolled in an accredited seminary
• Desire
to explore a call to military chaplaincy
• Have
the recommendation by the bishop of the diocese
in which canonically resident (the Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries obtains this directly from
the diocesan bishop)
• Have
a completed background check on file
• Receive
and maintain the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries’
approval for service in the CCP
Military Appointment and Service.
The military branch commissions the candidate as an Ensign or Second Lieutenant. No guarantee of subsequent commissioning as a chaplain or success in the chaplaincy is made. The candidate’s seminary studies should take precedence over the CCP. CCP officers may drill with a reserve unit, attend training for chaplains or CCP officers sponsored by the military branch, or matriculate in a Clinical Pastoral Education program under the auspices of the military. Drill participation is not remunerated; however pay may be available for attendance at the military service’s Chaplain School or through on-the-job training.
Seminary Support.
Many seminaries offer field education credit for CCP participation.
Relationship with Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries.
Persons interested in this
program should contact Office of the Bishop for Federal
Ministries and their preferred branch of military
service for additional information. Annual reports,
using form in Appendix 5 or online, are required on
30 June. Attendance at one of Bishop for Federal Ministries’
annual conferences for chaplains is strongly encouraged.
After ordination to the priesthood, candidates may
apply to the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
for endorsement as a military chaplain following the
guidelines outlined in Appendix 1. The application
may be found here.
Diocesan support.
Diocesan bishops and Commissions on Ministry are encouraged to consider this program as an option for a ministry practicum.
Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries
Pastoral Support
As outlined in the Canons of
the Episcopal Church, the Bishop Suffragan for Federal
Ministries is responsible for the pastoral and ecclesiastical
support of the chaplains and people who comprise this
episcopacy and constituency. Much of this pastoral
and ecclesiastical support is accomplished through
episcopal visitations. Although the Bishop Suffragan
for Chaplaincies would like to visit each chaplain
every year, the great geographical separations make
this impossible. Visitations are scheduled, however,
to provide the widest possible coverage. The Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries does hope to visit
every chaplain at least once during each of the chaplain’s
assignments, or once every two years in longer assignments.
Visitation
Scheduling. Visitations
by the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
should be scheduled at a time convenient and appropriate
for the Bishop, the local command or institution,
and the chaplain.
Purpose. The
Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministriesneeds an
understanding of the unique circumstances of each
chaplain’s ministry. Similarly, it is important
to worship with each chaplain and to meet personnel
in the chaplain’s chain of command, especially
commanders, commanding officers, and chaplain
supervisors. The visitation is an opportunity
to present persons for Confirmation, Reception
or Reaffirmation. The visitations also provide
a critical opportunity for the chaplain and his/her
family to receive first-hand pastoral care and
assistance from the Bishop Suffragan.
Nature of a Visit. Visitations
are not inspections. Visitations may be formal
or informal, depending upon the preference of
the chaplain and the host agency or command.
Formal Visits.
Formal visits are official
occasions wherein the Bishop Suffragan for Federal
Ministries, or, where appropriate, the cognizant
staff officer within the Bishop Suffragan’s
Office, receives Department of Defense (DOD) travel
orders to visit a command and travels as the equivalent
of a GS-16 (staff members travel as GS-15 equivalents).
These visits have a published itinerary that is
approved by the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
and the host command or institution.
Informal Visits. Informal
visits are also scheduled but may or may not have
a formal itinerary. Although the Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries or staff member may not
be traveling on DOD invitational travel orders,
the Bishop still travels as the equivalent of
a GS-16 (staff members travel as GS-15 equivalents).
Informal visits afford the same opportunity as
a formal visitation, i.e., visits with chaplains,
their people, visits with their co-workers and
peers, and visits/calls on commanders and commanding
officers.
Protocol.
The Bishop for Federal Ministries serves as a
Bishop Suffragan to the Presiding Bishop of the
Episcopal Church. To facilitate and to ensure
normal protocol as described in the military protocol
manual, the host chaplain should notify local
commands and agencies of this status. Senior command
chaplains or agency supervisors should be made
aware of visitation plans. Opportunities for the
Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries to visit
agency/command leaders are always appropriate.
Local Ecclesiastical Officials.
The host Episcopal Chaplain will ensure that the
Bishop of the local Anglican diocese and all local
area Anglican clergy are notified of the planned
visit.
Coordination and Scheduling.
Direct and close communication
between the host Episcopal chaplain and the Bishop
Suffragan are essential to maximize the value
of the visit to all concerned. Visits should include
appropriate worship services, time with the chaplain
and family, visits to Episcopalians in the military/agency,
and calls on agency heads, commanders, commanding
officers, etc.
Procedures. The
following procedures are appropriate for formal
visits. For informal visitations, the contact
with local agencies/commands is less structured
and arrangements may be made as most expedient.
Itinerary. The
Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries and senior
staff visits to specific agencies or commands
are normally part of more extensive visits to
larger geographical regions. The Bishop’s
Office will publish an overall itinerary in coordination
with local Episcopal chaplains in order to establish
times and dates for individual visits. Host chaplains
will review the proposed itinerary with command
to ensure that the visit is coordinated with local
operational schedules. This process should be
completed as expeditiously as possible.
Invitational Travel Orders.
When applicable, upon completion
of the itinerary, the Bishop’s Office will
initiate the request for DOD Invitational Travel
Orders. DOD requires approximately 60 days to
complete this process.
Local Media Coverage.
The host chaplain will
coordinate local media coverage and will inform
the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries or
senior staff of potential issues or lines of questioning
that might be expected. Prior to the bishop’s
arrival, the host chaplain is encouraged to utilize
the photo and biographical sketch of the Bishop
Suffragan located on the web site. Advance planning
and maximizing local media coverage will often
magnify a visit’s impact and enhance the
outreach of the Episcopal Church to the host chaplain’s
community.
Discretionary Fund.
When the Bishop presides
at a worship service during a visitation, any
offering received is donated to the Bishop Suffragan’s
Discretionary Fund. For more information on this
topic, see
Section 7 of the Ministry Guidelines.
Visitation Checklists.
Helpful checklists to assist
with planning are in Appendix
10, Visitation Checklist.
Communication
With the Bishop Suffragan Communication
with the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
by all endorsees is welcomed. The Bishop Suffragan
is chief pastor and takes that role extremely seriously.
Despite a busy schedule, the Bishop Suffragan treats
one-on-one contact with chaplains as primary. Prayer,
pastoral support, and assistance are among the main
functions of the Bishop and staff. The Bishop Suffragan
or staff periodically update his “Notebook”
on the web. The Notebook serves as a key communication
device. Chaplains are strongly encouraged to read
each entry.
In the past three decades the liturgical renewal of the Episcopal Church, as reflected in the 1979 Book of Common Prayer, has created a renewed appreciation for the valuable contributions of committed laity to the worship and ministries of this Church. Worship is the work of all of God's people, not the task of clergy with lay spectators. The 1988 and 1991 General Conventions set forth clearly the different liturgical and ministerial functions for which laity of this Church may be licensed.
Policy
The Episcopal program on military installations, ships, and federal facilities will normally be under the supervision of an Episcopal chaplain. Where there is no Episcopal chaplain, where a significant number of members of the Episcopal Church have expressed a desire to gather for Episcopal worship and other religious activities, and where these individuals do not have ready access to a civilian Episcopal congregation, the installation/ship/federal facility senior chaplain is urged to secure the services of an Episcopal Contract Priest or Licensed Lay Minister to conduct the Episcopal program. All such persons must be certified through the Office of the Bishop Suffragan for Chaplaincies.
General Qualifications
The Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries may license a confirmed adult
communicant of the Episcopal Church in good standing
(Title I, Canon 17.3) as a Pastoral Leader, Lay Preacher,
Lay Reader, Lay Eucharistic Minister, or Catechist (Title
III, Canon 3). A license shall be given only at the
request, and upon the recommendation of the Episcopal
Chaplain (or, if there is not Episcopal chaplain, the
senior chaplain) of the installation/ship/federal facility/other
agency in which the licensed person will serve. An Episcopal
chaplain, licensed lay minister or pastoral leader may
appoint qualified persons to serve as lectors without
a license from the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries.
Pastoral Leader. A layperson licensed to exercise pastoral or administrative responsibility in a congregation under special circumstances. May be licensed to lead public worship as authorized in the Book of Common Prayer.
Lay Preacher. A layperson licensed to preach with the approval and under the supervision of the chaplain in charge.
Lay Reader. A layperson licensed to regularly lead public worship under the direction of a chaplain in charge. A Lay Reader licensed to preach shall only preach with the approval and under the supervision of the chaplain in charge.
Lay Eucharistic Minister. A layperson licensed to assist in the distribution of Holy Communion.
a) At the Eucharist. A Lay Eucharistic Minister may be licensed to administer the elements in the absence of sufficient priests and deacons to assist the celebrant.
b) After the Eucharist. A Lay Eucharistic Minister may be licensed to take the consecrated Sacrament to members of the congregation who were absent due to illness or infirmity directly following the Celebration of the Holy Eucharist.
c) In the Field and at Sea. Under rare and special circumstances, the Bishop may license an Episcopal Lay Eucharistic minister to take consecrated Sacrament while on deployment when it is certain that several Episcopalians for whom the Eucharist is central to their spirituality will deploy together, that they will be deployed for a substantial period of time, and that they will otherwise be unable to receive the Sacrament. Licensure shall be for only a single deployment. Individuals shall apply for licensure through an Episcopal priest of this episcopacy or, in the absence of an Episcopal chaplain, through this office directly, using the application form in Appendix 6, Request for a Lay Ministry License.
Catechist. A layperson trained to prepare persons for Holy Baptism, Confirmation, Reception, and the Reaffirmation of Baptismal vows.
Lector. A person trained in the reading of Holy Scripture and appointed without a license by a member of the clergy to read lessons or lead the Prayers of the People in worship.
Importance of Lay Ministry
While the need for lay liturgical and ministerial support is recognized and affirmed, chaplains are encouraged to exercise restraint in requesting licensing of laypersons in order that these ministries not become devalued. Taking full advantage of locally appointed lectors is encouraged. A need for Licensed Lay Readers, Lay Eucharistic Ministers, and Catechists is foreseen. Pastoral Leaders and Lay Preachers will be restricted to accommodate only extraordinary circumstances, e.g., when the needs of a continuing Episcopal community cannot be met through chaplains or contract clergy.
Licensing and Supervision
Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries.
Persons shall be licensed for service under guidelines
at the discretion of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal
Ministries and upon the recommendation of the supervising
chaplain. No layperson may exercise the ministries outlined
in Title III, Canon 3 (except for lectors), on government
installations without being duly licensed by the Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries.
Issuing of
Licenses. Upon approval of application for licensing
of qualified lay persons the Bishop Suffragan for Federal
Ministries will issue and forward to the supervising
chaplain the appropriate license indicating the specific
ministry for which the person is licensed and the term
of the license. This license should be presented, if
possible and appropriate, using one of the forms in
the Book of Occasional Services.
Supervision. All ministries of laypersons licensed and serving under designated guidelines will be performed under the supervision of the chaplain in charge. The supervising chaplain shall be responsible for ensuring that all licensed laypersons have been adequately trained, examined, and found competent in the execution of their ministry as required under Title III, Canon 3.
Validity and
Term of Licenses. Licensing
of laypersons for ministry within the Episcopal Church
by the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries is valid
only on or in the government installation, ship or unit
to which the person is assigned. All licenses shall
have a term of one year or less, expiring on 31 October.
All licenses shall terminate upon the transfer of the
person licensed or the supervising chaplain.
Course required.
A layperson shall not be licensed
as a Lay Reader, Pastoral Leader, Lay Preacher, or Catechist
without having either successfully completed the Lay
Minister’s Study Course (available from the
Office of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries)
or provided documentation of a current license for the
same ministry from his/her diocese. Enrollment in the
Study Course requires concurrence of the chaplain who
will subsequently serve as the supervising chaplain.
Although Lay Eucharistic Ministers are not required
by canon law to have demonstrated competency in specific
subjects, chaplains should encourage persons desiring
to be licensed to perform this extraordinary ministry
to take the Lay Minister’s Study Course.
Course completion.
The Chaplain is expected to assist
and supervise the student in the completion of the Course.
Upon successful completion of the Course, the Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries will issue the student
a certificate or letter of completion. Based on the
needs of the installation or unit, the Chaplain may
then submit an application for the licensing of laypersons
who have successfully completed the Lay Minister’s
Study Course to the specific ministries identified above.
Reports
Monthly. Licensed laypersons shall report to their supervisory chaplain monthly, formally or informally as mutually agreed.
Annual.
Licensed laypersons shall submit an annual report (found
in Appendix 7) on All Saints Day (1 November) to the
Bishop for Federal Ministries.
Transfer.
The supervisory chaplain shall notify the Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries if a licensed layperson transfers
or changes address.
Diocesan and Parochial Support for Military Personnel and Families
Ministry to armed services personnel and their families is a continuing need in today’s world. Despite variations in the size of the active military services, large numbers of young people continue to enter and to serve in the military, and subsequently return to civilian life at the end of their tour of duty. These parishioners deserve priority in the prayers and programs of every parish and diocese.
Each Diocesan Bishop has been asked to form an Armed Services Committee within the Diocese. These organizations have visibly and significantly enhanced this ministry. For example, during the call-up of Reserves and National Guard in the winter of 1990-91 and again in 2002-2004, this network proved a very useful structure for coordinating and supporting the ministry of the chaplaincy to members of the Armed Services. The committee should:
—Include members who are Episcopalian, non-commissioned and commissioned representatives of each of the military services, as well as other interested participants, including retired military persons.
— Maintain contact with active duty, National Guard, Reserve, Veterans Affairs, and Federal Prison chaplains who serve within the Diocese.
—Urge parish clergy to contact the chaplains who serve on military installations near them and to work with these local active duty chaplains.
— Maintain contact with, and prayer support for, chaplains who are not canonically resident in the diocese but who serve outside the diocese.
—Arrange for a display of promotional materials on chaplaincy at the Diocesan Convention and other appropriate meetings.
—Give each Diocesan Altar Guild suggestions for assisting military chaplains with vestments, altar and pulpit hangings, etc.
— Increase awareness and concern within the Diocese for the chaplains and people of this episcopacy through intercessory prayer, publicity, and other means.
— Assist the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
in recruiting priests to serve as chaplains.
Parochial support
Parochial ministry to those who serve in the Armed Services should include prayers and recognition when a person leaves for active duty, when they return home on leave, and when they finally return to civilian status (according extra pastoral support for the family waiting at home should also be a priority). Placing these people on parish mailing lists and sending them an occasional letter does much to cement home ties and to bring the service person home as an active communicant of the Church. Appointment of a person in each congregation to oversee and to coordinate this ministry by:
—Sending mail, gifts, and parish literature.
—Supporting those separated from loved ones through prayer, friendship, and referral to helping agencies.
—Urging regular parish prayers for the Armed Services, Healthcare and VA Medical Centers and Federal Correctional Institutions, emergency responders and port/maritime chaplains.
—Increasing awareness through displays of pictures and other means of those to whom this episcopacy and its chaplains minister.
—Promoting a wide understanding of the ministry of the Episcopal chaplaincy to persons in the Armed Services, VA Medical Centers, and Federal Correctional institutions as well as those affected by the ministires of chaplains in local hospital, prison, port/maritime and emergency responder situations. (Some materials are available from the Office of the Bishop Suffragan for Chaplaincies to assist in this task.)
—Encouraging parish clergy to honor Service members with a presentation of the Service Cross and Armed Service Prayer Book (such a presentation is especially appropriate before an individual heads to basic training or other new accessions training). These items can be ordered from Episcopal Parish Services .
—Advocate celebration of special days of recognition for members of the Armed Services, e.g., the Navy Sabbath, Armed Forces Day, Veterans Day, and Memorial Day.
Financial matters
Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries Discretionary Fund
The purpose
of the Bishop’s discretionary fund is to support
ministry and meet needs within this episcopacy that
cannot be met through normal funding channels. Oversight
and operations of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
discretionary fund shall be in accordance with the policies
established for the Presiding Bishop’s office
and the canons.
Donations to
the Bishop for Federal Ministries Discretionary Fund
are always welcome. When the Bishop presides at a worship
service during a visitation, any offering received is
donated to the Bishop Suffragan’s Discretionary
Fund. Donations should be sent to the Office of the
Bishop for Federal Ministries, the Episcopal Church
Center, 815 Second Ave., New York, NY 10017. Make checks
payable to the Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society,
annotating them for the Bishop for Federal Ministries’
Discretionary Fund.
Chaplain discretionary funds
Clergy endorsed
by Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries are prohibited
from having a discretionary fund as part of their endorsed
ministry. Under no circumstances shall military chaplains
on active duty maintain a discretionary fund.
Clergy endorsed
by Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries are prohibited
from receiving fees or other compensation for any ministry
performed as part of their endorsed chaplain ministry.
Federal law prohibits federal employees from receiving
additional compensation for work performed for the federal
government. (This does not include moderate remuneration
for occasional Sunday supply ministry not related to
the chaplain’s work.)
Church Pension Fund
Pension provisions.
When an endorsed chaplain is
receiving a full-time government check qualifying him/her
for a government pension at the end of twenty years
of federal service, payments to the Episcopal Church
Pension Fund (CPF) will not be made by this episcopacy.
Active duty military chaplains who voluntarily elect
or involuntarily separate under honorable conditions
at the conclusion of their initial commissioned assignment
will have their pension payments for those initial years
paid to the CPF via this episcopacy at a basic pay-formula
rate. Voluntary separations or involuntary separation
under honorable conditions during the years following
thee initial assignment and prior to twenty years completed
service will be considered by the Bishop Suffragan for
Federal Ministries on an individual basis for possible
payment of pension for all or part of those years on
active duty at a basic pay-formula rate. A pension program
for Reserve/Guard chaplains who have been mobilized
may be found on the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries’
web site. Specific questions should be addressed to
the Bishop Suffragan or staff.
Life insurance.
Military chaplains while on active
duty receive term life insurance paid for by the Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries through the Church
Pension Fund (CPF) for an amount equal to the lesser
of twice their annual salary or fifty thousand dollars.
Although the
conditions of military service make formal continuing
education requirements problematic, all chaplains serving
in this episcopacy are expected to pursue appropriate
continuing education opportunities. While some of these
opportunities may be available through the federal or
other agency the chaplain serves, other opportunities
are available within the Episcopal Church and larger
Christian community. Chaplains whose endorsement or
employment is contingent upon membership in a professional
body are, at a minimum, expected to comply with the
continuing education requirements of that body. Some
limited assistance for defraying continuing education
costs may, in unusual circumstances, be available from
the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries.
Retired chaplains
are valued members of the community formed by members
of this episcopacy. They bring wisdom and experience
to the continuing challenges of the chaplaincy. They
may also face unique challenges upon retirement as they
re-integrate into the Church at large and establish
new roles for themselves. The Bishop Suffragan for Federal
Ministries and staff will provide support and assistance
as possible. For example, conferences for retired chaplains
have proved popular and helpful in recent years. Chaplains
who retire near military installations often are valued
Sunday supply or contract chaplains and confidants to
ECUSA chaplains assigned to the area.
Ecumenism
The Episcopal Church and Ecumenism
The Episcopal
Church has a long history of commitment to the ecumenical
movement with fellow Christians and to interfaith relations,
i.e., Christian-Jewish and Christian-Muslim. The environment
in which Episcopalians minister within the military
services, VA Medical Centers, other healthcare and maritime
institutions, and Federal Corrections Institutions is
one of pluralism. Ministering in those environments
requires a clear and concise understanding of the Church’s
ecumenical commitments, policies, and programs. Inquiries
regarding specific ecumenical questions should be forwarded
to the Office of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Chaplaincies
who, if appropriate, will forward it to the Office of
Ecumenical and Interfaith Relations. The Episcopal Church’s
Handbook on Ecumenism can be sent to chaplains upon
request and will is available on
the web .
Ecumenism in this Episcopacy
Chaplains in this episcopacy have three distinct ministries that may overlap:
— Caring for all of God's people, especially as a missionary bringing love and good news to all who are spiritually seeking;
— Facilitating, without seeking to convert, the faith journey of those who are active participants in a faith group other than the Episcopal Church;
— Ministering to Episcopalians in particular and Christians in general.
This latter ministry shall be performed in as an inclusive a manner as possible, consistent with the teachings and practices of the Episcopal Church. The opportunity to minister to Christians who are not part of the Anglican Communion is a privilege, especially when their own clergy are not present. This ministry must be performed with sensitivity, genuine concern, and respect for the integrity and validity of all branches of Christianity.
Full Communion Relationships
The definition of Full Communion articulated by the Bonn Agreement of 1931 is:
1) Each Communion recognizes the catholicity and independence of the other and maintains its own.
2) Each Communion agrees to admit members of the other Communion to participate in the Sacraments.
3) Intercommunion does not require from either Communion the acceptance of all doctrinal opinion, sacramental devotion, or liturgical practice characteristic of the other but implies that each believes the other to hold all the essentials of the Christian faith.
Such relationships exist between the Episcopal Church in the USA and all the Churches of the Anglican Communion, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Old Catholic Churches of Europe, the Philippine Independent Church, the Mar Thoma Syria Church of Malabar, India, and the Churches of South India, North India, Bangladesh, and Pakistan. Additionally, at the 2003 General Convention, resolution A087 established interim Eucharistic Sharing with the Moravian Church in America.
Marriage Guidelines
Officiating at weddings, when viewed as a pastoral opportunity, can afford opportunity to introduce people to the beauty and power of Anglican liturgy, the richness and relevance of the Christian faith, and to build bridges for continuing relationships with the chaplain, the Episcopal Church, and the Christian community.
All canonical requirements must be met before any chaplain may officiate at a wedding (Title 1, Canon 18).
Understanding of Marriage. Both parties must understand that Holy Matrimony is a physical and spiritual union of two individuals, entered into within the community of faith, by mutual consent of heart, mind, and will, with intent that the commitment be lifelong.
Bride or Groom Baptized. A Christian wedding requires that at least one party has received the sacrament of Christian Baptism. In the case of a Christian marrying a non-Christian, pre-marital counseling should identify potential problems, respect the faith of each party, and witness to the Christian faith in an invitational rather than proselytizing manner.
Pre-marital Counseling. Preparation should be focused on a couple’s specific needs yet sufficiently flexible that the requirement for pre-marital preparation does not become an excuse for a cleric not to officiate. All clergy of this Church have the option to decline to officiate at a wedding. However, clerics who do not desire to officiate at the wedding of a particular couple should discuss that directly with the couple. Use of group programs, lay and clerical colleagues, and individual sessions are all valuable resources for pre-marital preparation.
Signing the Consents / Declaration of Intention. Geographic separations may dictate innovative approaches to this requirement, e.g., each party signing at a different time and in a different place. Chaplains are reminded that the Declaration of Intention (see below) should be signed 30 days prior to the marriage except for good pastoral cause.
Canonical Registration
of the Marriage. The
marriage must be registered in a proper Church register,
i.e., the Armed Services Register in the Office of the
Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries using the form
in Appendix 8, Record of Marriage/Declaration of Intention
Military chaplains and VA chaplains shall conform to the laws of the state or country in which the federal facility to which they are attached is located. If required, the chaplain shall be licensed by civilian authorities before performing a marriage in that civil jurisdiction.
Honoring the faith of both parties, when possible, is important. To the extent permitted by conscience and canons, services involving clergy from both partners’ faiths are encouraged. When officiating at a mixed marriage involving a Roman Catholic who intends to continue practicing the Roman Catholic faith, the Roman Catholic should request dispensations to marry a non-Roman Catholic and to have a non-Roman Catholic officiate at the wedding.
Remarriage of Previous Divorced
Canonical Requirements. Active duty military chaplains, VA chaplains, active or inactive reserve chaplains, contract clergy, retired chaplains, and civilian priests when performing marriage ceremonies on federal property in which one or both of the parties have a former spouse still living shall comply with the requirements of Title I, Canon 19 – “Of Regulations Respecting Holy Matrimony: Concerning Preservation of Marriage, Dissolution of Marriage and Re-Marriage.” This canon forbids a member of the clergy of this Church to solemnize the marriage of any person who has been the husband or wife of any other person then living, except as herein provided:
— Appropriate evidence has been presented to ensure that that the previous marriage has been annulled or dissolved by a final decree.
— Instruction has been given on responsibility to the former spouse(s) and child(ren), if any.
— Consent of the minister’s Bishop shall be obtained prior to the marriage and the marriage, when solemnized, shall be reported to the Bishop.
Purpose. The Church’s overarching concerns with the remarriage of a previously married person are pastoral: has proper provision been made for the previous spouse and any children? Is the previously married person ready, spiritually and emotionally, to enter into a new marriage? In all cases, the officiant shall see a copy of all divorce or annulment decrees prior to agreeing to officiate.
iii. Jurisdiction.
Both because of the mobility of active duty chaplains
who are rarely assigned within the diocese of their
canonical residence and of the mobility of those whom
active duty chaplains serve, the Bishop Suffragan for
Federal Ministries will render judgment for petitions
submitted by chaplains on behalf of all military personnel.
If a civilian priest is to officiate at a remarriage
of a divorced person within the jurisdiction (episcopacy)
of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries, the
Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries will make the
judgment in consultation with the diocesan bishop.
Policies
Understanding
of Marriage. The policies
of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries for solemnization
of marriage after divorce are consistent with the Canons
of the Episcopal Church and based on two Christian truths:
that marriage is a lifelong, sacramental union of two
people, instituted of God, signifying the union between
Christ and His Church; and that God, in God's infinite
mercy and redeeming love, creates new life in death,
gives hope where there is despair, and forgives sins.
The Church maintains its belief in the will of God for
lifelong marriages as signs of God's steadfast love
and yet, with no dilution of that belief, the Church
may bless the unions of those whose prior marriages
have died, and who, in faith, while accepting the consequences
of their prior commitments, covenant with one another
to make a mature Christian marriage.
Time between Marriages. These guidelines seek to assist persons in building strong marriages. The Church’s experience has taught that time is necessary for healing, for learning, and for forgiveness. Except in unusual circumstances, at least one year shall have passed between the final civil decree of divorce and the date of the petition to the Bishop Suffragan for permission to be married again. These guidelines seek to assist persons in resolving issues left over from a prior marriage and in accepting responsibility for commitments that might continue from the previous marriage. These guidelines deliberately discourage marriages that are formed in reaction to the stresses of a prior marriage or its dissolution.
Professional Consultation. When a person approaches the Church seeking to marry for the third or more time, additional professional consultation to assist the chaplain and the Bishop Suffragan in the exercise of pastoral ministry is required.
Minimum Standard.
These guidelines provide a minimum standard that places
substantial responsibility for judgment on the chaplain.
They assume that the chaplain is in the best position
to make a recommendation to the Bishop Suffragan regarding
the proposed marriage. The guidelines seek to provide
a coherent framework for that judgment as well as a
consistent set of standards for the Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries. The process requires the conscientious
attention of the chaplain. The guidelines are meant
to support the chaplain’s ministry, to simplify
procedures where appropriate, and to maintain a standard
that is pastorally sensitive and theologically sound.
Early conversation with the Bishop is encouraged when
a chaplain believes that a particular set of circumstances
calls for an exception to these guidelines. These are
guidelines, not rigid rules. For example, a substantial
period of separation prior to the divorce (e.g., eighteen
months or longer) may allow for healing. These guidelines
are in addition to the rubrics of the Book of Common
Prayer and the provisions of Title I, Canons 18 and
19. A chaplain may maintain additional standards consistent
with these guidelines and the Canons, e.g., the chaplain
may require counseling, or the submission of personal
statements reflecting on the former marriages.
Consent Process. The chaplain seeking the Bishop’s consent to solemnize the marriage of a previously married individual petitions the Bishop using the form in Appendix 9, Remarriage Petition Form, in sufficient time to ensure that a judgment can be rendered by the Bishop at least thirty days before the marriage is to be solemnized. No date for the marriage should be set or announced before the consent has been received. If a question in the petition is answered negatively, a statement thoroughly explaining the circumstances from the chaplain submitting the petition must accompany the petition.
In all cases, a brief statement or letter should accompany the petition summarizing the circumstances and why the chaplain believes it appropriate to officiate at the proposed wedding. Holy Matrimony is entered into within the community of faith and the liturgy for the Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage emphasizes the worshipping community’s responsibility to uphold the couple in their marriage. It is a reasonable expectation, therefore, that the couple, or at least one party with the support of the other, intends to live out their marriage in a community of faith. The Bishop Suffragan will act promptly on petitions.
Required Documentation.
Submit to the Bishop
Suffragan, with the petition, a copy of the couple’s
Declaration of Intention. After the wedding, send the
Office of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
a copy of the Record of Marriage / Declaration of Intention
along with an attached copy of the Letter of Authorization
to Officiate previously received from the Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries.
Wedding Ceremony
The wedding ceremony
is first and foremost a worship service. The rites of
the Episcopal Church as found in the Book of Common
Prayer shall be used for any wedding at which a chaplain
in this episcopacy officiates. The officiant shall vest
appropriately and have final say with regards to attire
of the wedding party, music, and all other aspects of
the service. Marriage ceremonies shall be conducted
in a church or chapel, except with the express consent
of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries. For
more on marriage, see
the section on marriage in the Worship Guidelines
Position of the Episcopal Church on Social Issues
Outlined below are brief synopses of some of the Episcopal Church’s teachings on social issues that may be pertinent to chaplains in their ministries. Additional information on these and other issues is available on the web site for the Episcopal Church as well as from the Office of Government Relations ( 110 Maryland Ave., NE, Suite 309, Washington, DC 20002, Tel. (800) 228-0515) and Episcopal Peace and Justice Ministries ( 815 Second Ave., New York, NY 10017, Tel. (800) 334 7626).
The Episcopal Church opposes any legislative, executive or judicial action limiting decision-making on or access to abortion (General Convention 1994). However, the Church condemns the use of abortion to select the sex of one’s children (General Convention 1988) and expresses grave concern about use of partial birth abortion except in extreme situations (General Convention 1997). Recognizing that abortion is not the right choice for all, the Episcopal Church affirms the value of adoption and has asked the U.S. Congress to pass legislation making adoption counseling available to those facing unplanned pregnancy and those seeking to adopt (General Convention 2000). Similarly, the Church calls for ministry to women and men suffering from post-abortive stress (General Convention 2000).
Every congregation is asked to support prevention and education programs on alcohol and other drug abuse and addiction (General Convention 1991) and urged to declare all interior space under Church jurisdiction be declared a “Tobacco-free zone” (General Convention 2000).
The Episcopal Church affirms the right of women to use birth control (General Convention 1982).
The Episcopal Church has reaffirmed its opposition to the death penalty and called for an immediate moratorium on capital punishment (General Convention 2000).
Criminal justice, Prisons, Prisoners, and Firearms
The Episcopal Church urges the Church to be active in public policy decisions affecting the growing prison industrial complex on the local, state and national levels (General Convention 2000) and supports a justice system that addresses identified needs of juvenile offenders (General Convention 2000). The Church has also endorsed exploration and study of restorative justice for our nation’s criminal justice system (General Convention 2000) as well as encouraged legislation to ban the carrying of concealed firearms (General Convention 1997) and legislation requiring establishment of appropriate safety standards for the use of firearms (General Convention 1997). Support for ministry to the incarcerated has been identified as a ministry priority (General Convention 1994).
Deferring Death, Dying, and Suicide The Church, at every level, is urged to make suicide prevention a priority (General Convention 2000). Study of the implications of end of life issues, including assisted suicide is encouraged (General Convention 1997).
The Episcopal Church condemns violence against women in all forms (General Convention 1994) and pledges to oppose violence against women and children (General Convention 1988). Congregations are asked to make an active and ongoing response to problems of sexual or domestic violence in their communities (General Convention 2000).
The Episcopal Church supports the eradication of all forms of institutional sexism (General Convention 1985) and supported the Equal Rights Amendment (General Convention 1982). The Church has condemned all acts motivated by hate (General Convention 2000) and encourages congregations to take steps to end hate crimes (General Convention 2000).
The Episcopal Church has called for universal access to health care for the nation’s people (General Convention 1991), created a network of Episcopal health care groups and professionals to articulate and communicate the positions of the Episcopal Church with regard to health care (General Convention 2000), and encouraged legislation for comprehensive medical care (General Convention 2000).
The Episcopal Church affirms ministry to persons with AIDS (General Convention 1991), calls for a Christian response to the HIV/AIDS pandemic (General Convention 1997), and has called for continuing efforts to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS (General Convention 2000).
The Episcopal Church recognizes that there are couples in the Church living in marriage and other life-long relationships and that such relationships will be characterized by fidelity, monogamy, mutual affection, respect, and careful and honest communication (General Convention 2000). Promiscuity, exploitation and abusiveness in relationships of Church members are denounced (General Convention 2000). The Episcopal Church also acknowledges the sanctity of marriage (General Convention 2000) and recognizes that those on various sides of controversial issues have a place in the Church (General Convention 2000).
In
the meeting of the 74th General Convention in 2003,
resolution A132 was passed urging dioceses and congregations
to study and better understand Just War theory and pacifism
as they apply to the United States in responding to
contemporary international conflicts. That resolution
commends "Just War Readings" from the Office
of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries (www.episcochap.org)
as important resources.
Two other Just War related resolutions were also passed at the same convention. Resolution A033 was very similar to A132 and resolution DO38, "Response to New War Situations," urges the Theology Committee of the House of Bishops to prepare a study on new warfare situations that may not be addressed adequately by previous theories.
Living wills are affirmed as beneficial documents (General Convention 1991). Organ, blood and tissue donations are approved (General Convention 1982). The Episcopal Church encourages genetic engineering research (General Convention 1991) but rejects conception for the purpose of providing fetal tissue for therapeutic or medical research use (General Convention 1991). In vitro fertilization is approved (General Convention 1982).
The Episcopal Church both affirms Israel as a sovereign state and supports the creation of a Palestinian state (General Convention 1991).
In the wake of the 11 September 2001 attacks, the Episcopal Church expressed support for those serving in the military (Executive Council 2001). The Church also recognizes conscientious objection as a faithful Christian response to war (General Convention 1988).
The Episcopal Church is committed to eradicating hunger (General Convention 1988) and to advocating that the President and Congress protect families and children from poverty (General Convention 1991).
The Episcopal Church recognizes the continued prevalence of racism and renewed, for another nine years, its commitment to anti-racism (General Convention 2000).
The Episcopal Church supports the goal of total nuclear disarmament (General Convention 1997), has encouraged the President to sign the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty on nuclear weapons (1994) and called for an international ban on the production, use, and sale of land mines (General Convention 1994). The Church encourages seminary courses on peace (General Convention 1985). Acts of terrorism are condemned (General Convention 1988).
Sexual Misconduct
The character and conduct of clergy and laity ministering in this episcopacy must be above reproach. Sexual misconduct occurs whenever one person violates his or her position by using or manipulating another for his or her own sexual gratification. Sexual misconduct is inconsistent with Christianity and will not be tolerated in this episcopacy.
Sexual Misconduct Policy
Background.
The Church has always recognized that those who are set apart for ordained ministry bear a particular responsibility to pattern their lives according to Jesus’ example. Not only are bishops, priests and deacons regarded by the faithful and the world as examples of what Christian lives should be, but any moral offense by clerics is especially hurtful because it betrays the trust committed to them by the Church to nurture and care for every member. Cranmer’s words, in the 1551 Book of Common Prayer, are a forceful reminder of how serious is this responsibility:
Have always therefore printed in your remembrance, how great a treasure is committed to your charge. For they are the sheep of Christ, which he bought with his death, and for whom he shed his blood. The Church and Congregations whom you must serve, is his Spouse, and his body. And if it shall happen the same church, or any member thereof to take any hurt or hindrance by reason of your negligence, ye know the greatness of the fault and also the horrible punishment that will ensue.
When church workers act inappropriately, they damage the Church as an institution, give rise to scandal, and even alienate others from God. For reasons of both professional ethics and Christian theology, sexual misconduct by members of the clergy is especially problematic. The cleric’s profession is teaching the Word of God and helping others come into right relationship with God. Clergy take a vow at ordination to pattern their lives after the teachings of Christ, so that they may be a wholesome example to the people of God. Clergy who abuse the powers and authority of their office by becoming sexually involved with people who are vulnerable to abuse or who are in their professional care betray their vows and their calling, as well as their victims and the Church. It is thus crucially important that the Church condemns sexual misconduct by clergy and other church workers in the strongest terms and has clear rules that define what it is and how it will be punished.
Impact of Misconduct.
Sexual misconduct on the part of a clergyperson as a chaplain is especially harmful. Ordination is a sacrament that sets the cleric apart to teach and to proclaim the message of the Gospel, to administer the sacraments, and to care for the people of God. Great authority, and therefore great responsibility, is conferred upon clergy. As those who are entrusted with power in the lives of the faithful, and who bear a deep trust relationship to them, they must at times put the welfare of those they serve before their own. Abusing this power and violating this trust by sexual misconduct destroys the spiritual integrity of the ordained and cannot be tolerated.
Prohibition of Misconduct.
The Bishop Suffragan for Chaplaincies
strictly prohibits sexual misconduct of any type by
any endorsee or layperson within this episcopacy. Sexual
abuse, exploitation, and harassment are clear violations
of the promise in the Baptismal Covenant to respect
the dignity of every human being. The Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries, the Office of the Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries’ staff, and all chaplains
shall do all in their power to make their ministries
safe for all.
Definitions
a) Sexual Harassment includes, but is not limited to, sexually oriented humor or language, questions or comments about sexual behavior, unwelcome or undesired physical contact, repeated requests for social engagements, or inappropriate comments about physical appearance or clothing. Sexual harassment may occur in a situation where there is a collegial, mentor or supervisory relationship.
b)
Sexual Abuse includes, but is not limited to,
sexual involvement or contact by a chaplain with a person
who is a minor or who is legally incompetent. Allegations
of sexual abuse shall be reported immediately to the
cognizant local and/or military authorities. The Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries will cooperate as fully
with official investigations of those allegations as
canonical responsibilities permit.
c) Sexual Exploitation includes, but is not limited to, the development of or the attempt to develop a sexual relationship between a cleric, subordinate, volunteer or person with whom the cleric has a pastoral relationship. A pastoral relationship is a relationship between a cleric and another person to whom the cleric provides counseling, pastoral care, spiritual direction, or spiritual guidance or from whom the cleric has received a confession or other privileged communication.
Investigation and Resolution.
The Bishop Suffragan for Federal
Ministries shall follow the procedures outlined for
the staff of the Presiding Bishop in investigating and
resolving allegations of sexual abuse, misconduct, and
exploitation to the extent possible. A copy of these
policies is available, upon request, from the Office
of the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries. Exceptions
to policy may be dictated by geography, the exigencies
of military service, or other factors. In all cases
where exceptions are made, the Bishop Suffragan for
Federal Ministries shall consult with the appropriate
personnel on the Presiding Bishop’s staff to ensure
that the legitimate concerns of the complainant and
accused receive due and prompt attention. If the Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries deems it best because
of geography or other factors, responsibility for investigation
and resolution of the allegation(s) may be passed on
to the diocese in which the accused is canonically resident
or in which the event happened, on the condition that
the diocesan bishop whose responsibility the matter
will become concurs.
Unsubstantiated Complaints.
In the case of an unsubstantiated
complaint, the Bishop Suffragan for Federal Ministries
shall notify all concerned parties and shall then initiate
all appropriate steps towards healing broken relationships,
injured parties, and disrupted ministries.
Substantiated
Complaints. Substantiated
complaints are sufficient cause for withdrawal of endorsement.
If endorsement is withdrawn, all documentation shall
be forwarded to the bishop in whose diocese the chaplain
is canonically resident for whatever further action
that bishop may wish to initiate. The Bishop Suffragan
for Federal Ministries may include a recommendation
for further disciplinary action along with the documentation.
Applicants
for ecclesiastical endorsement by Bishop Suffragan for
Federal Ministries or paricipation in a Chaplain Candidates
Program requires a background check, which includes
sexual misconduct, prior to endorsement or approval.
Exceptions to this policy, at the discretion of Bishop
for Federal Ministries, may include those who have had
a recent background check for sexual misconduct as part
of their service in their diocese of canonical residence
or other employment.
Other Spiritual Expressions and Movements
The
Bishop urges the use of the Prayer Cycle for the Bishop
Suffragan for Federal Ministries (available on the website)
as well as other Anglican and non-Anglican cycles of
prayer in private prayer and at every service of public
worship. Some chaplains have found it helpful to create
a cycle of prayer to systematically remember all of
the personnel and organizational units of the institution
or command to which the chaplain is attached. Prayer
cycles provide a systematic way for remembering, affirming,
and expressing our concern for the totality of Christ's
church.
The Episcopal Church, along with other Christian communions, has received many blessings from the charismatic renewal movement. There is a place for an ongoing charismatic fellowship within this episcopacy. All must follow the clear teaching, faith and practice of the Episcopal Church as embodied in the canons, Book of Common Prayer, and Scripture.
The Cursillo, Episcopal Expression, is well established and becoming an important part of the ministry in some parts of this episcopacy. Cursillos are overseen by the Bishop Suffragan and operate under his pastoral guidance. The Episcopal Expression of Cursillo adheres carefully to the faith and practice of the Book of Common Prayer. As not all persons are called to share in this form of renewal, each person’s individual path of Christian discipleship must be honored.
Marriage Encounter
Like Cursillo, Marriage Encounter is well established in the Episcopal Church, and from time to time is available to people within this episcopacy. Marriage Encounter is not marriage therapy, but is a fine vehicle for encouraging couples to remember and to renew their original promises and covenant.
Acknowledgements
In the late 1990’s the then Bishop for the Armed Services, the Rt. Rev. Charles L. Keyser, CAPT, CHC, USN (Ret.) and his Executive Assistant, the Rev. William C. Noble, CH (LTC), USA (Ret.), developed the original Chaplaincy Guidelines (popularly called “The Blue Notebook” because of the blue three-ring binder) and later added a Liturgical Customary.
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