Could God be calling you to serve?

There are currently many vacancies for chaplains across the Armed Forces

Armed Forces Chaplaincy

For over a century, the Free Churches have been committed to providing spiritual and pastoral care within the Armed Forces. Eight denominations have been actively involved in military chaplaincy for many years, either through the United Board or, in the case of the Methodist Church, through their own Board. In 2024, the opportunity was extended to the full range of Free Churches to take part in this unique ministry.

A list of those currently registered with the Free Churches Group can be found here. ( Church of God of Prophecy, New Testament Church of God, The Order of Saint Leonard, Moravian Church, This is a distinctive calling for ordained or accredited ministers to serve as military chaplains. Armed Forces Chaplains minister to Armed Forces personnel and their families, whether stationed in the UK or overseas, in times of both peace and conflict.

The FCG hopes to see growing interest in Armed Forces chaplaincy, with more ministers stepping forward to serve. The recruitment process is thorough, involving discernment and a range of assessments. Working as part of the United Board, the FCG helps to identify, support and commend suitable candidates who feel called to this ministry Chaplains serve in the Royal Navy, British Army and the Royal Air Force, providing spiritual and pastoral support in diverse contexts, on land, sea (ships and submarines) and air force bases.

What you need to consider

Life and ministry as an Armed Forces Chaplain is both challenging and rewarding. Together, we explore God’s call on your life and family.

  • You will need at least three-years ministerial experience as a church leader, with pastoral skills, the ability to lead worship, and to conduct communion and life cycle services in an ecumenical or inter-faith setting.

  • You must be a good listener, able to offer guidance on a wide range of issues and know when to refer to other support agencies depending on context.

  • You will sometimes need to make decisions in the moment, relying on the leading of the Holy Spirit.

  • You will receive the training and development you need to flourish in this ministry and be able to serve in your own ministry context.

What you will do 

At the outset, you will choose which branch of the Armed forces you wish to serve in. Whether as a chaplain in the RAF, Navy or Army, you will walk alongside personnel of all ranks and backgrounds, offering vital spiritual, pastoral, and ethical support, wherever they go, including during deployments.  

Typical responsibilities include:

  • Serving as the pastoral leader from an endorsed faith community, fulfilling the role of Chaplain.

  • Offering counsel to Armed Forces personnel and their families on spiritual or emotional matters.

  • Helping Armed Forces personnel work to navigate difficult moral issues in the course of their duties.

  • Providing welfare support to families and dependents.

Basic Requirements

To be considered for Armed Forces chaplaincy, you must:

  • Hold a degree (if not in theology, then a post-graduate diploma in theology).

  • Be an accredited minister within your denomination or para-church group.

  • Be under 49 years of age at the time of commissioning (with some flexibility).

  • Be physically fit, with a strong health record, and ready to serve alongside Armed Forces personnel in demanding environments.

  • Be willing to serve King and Country, understanding that this ministry many require the ultimate sacrifice.

What Next?

If you are interested in exploring this calling or know someone who may be, please contact the FCG or more information.

General Secretary of the Free Churches Group

Tel: 0203 651 8335, Mob: 07715 176542
Email: paul.rochester@freechurches.org.uk

Revd Paul Rochester is responsible to serve the Directors and the members. He oversees the implementation of the Free Churches Group agenda, as defined by the Board of Directors, including strategy development and overall management of FCG and its programmes.