Information for Chaplains

We understand that we must meet specific requirements to minister to military-connected youth through the chapel. This is how we address some of those concerns.

COLLABORATION WITH THE CHAPEL

All Campus Life Military staff support military teens. Because our programs have a spiritual component, we believe the best way to connect with military families is through collaboration with the installation’s chapel whenever possible.

The type and level of collaboration between Campus Life Military and the chapel is determined by the Installation Chaplain. For this reason, collaboration with the chapel can range from contracted ministry to regular communication with chapel staff regarding Campus Life Military programs run in the local community. The nature of the programs themselves is determined based on the need of military-connected youth in that area and the Installation Chaplain’s priorities.

PROSELYTIZATION

Campus Life Military understands the unique nature of military ministry and both respects and abides by the strict rules regarding proselytization of military members. In our long history, we have found a balance between helping young people, living and demonstrating a Christian lifestyle, and presenting Christ without making students feel pressured or uncomfortable. We help military-connected youth, regardless of their faith, while remaining true to our own.

ECUMENISM

Campus Life Military is ecumenically intentional. We seek a unified Christian Church through collaboration with other Christian organizations to reach every military kid in every military community. Expressions of our ecumenism are specific and measurable:

a. Create collaborative relationships with Christian Chaplains and off-base leaders, both Catholic and Protestant

b. Intentional commitment to involve a wide range of Catholic and Protestant ministry volunteers

c. Intentional commitment to support both Catholic and Protestant youth ministry through training and resources

d. We acknowledge the religious values of students’ families in matters of spiritual formation

SAFETY

Gathering groups of students is important in military youth ministry. Campus Life Military activities often include small groups, large gatherings, overnight events and even multi-day events such as camps and service projects. To keep kids safe, we follow all standard YFC safety practices including background checks for leaders. In addition, with the guidance of the Installation Chaplain, we ensure that our events meet all applicable military safety and force protection requirements.