Chaplain Commissioning Program
Equipping compassionate leaders to serve in moments of crisis—at home and across the nation.
Your path to training, commissioning, and ongoing service.
What It Means to Be Commissioned
Christ In Action’s Chaplain Commissioning Program (CCP) prepares and commissions volunteer chaplains to serve in times of crisis—both during CIA deployments and in their own local communities. This lay chaplaincy equips everyday people to bring emotional and spiritual care wherever it’s needed most. Commissioned chaplains serve year-round, offering prayer, presence, and support to survivors, first responders, and communities in need.
Required Training Before You Apply
Before submitting your application, all candidates must complete the required Faith-Based First Responder (FBFR) and FEMA online courses. These trainings lay the foundation for emotional and spiritual care in crisis response, preparing you to serve with both skill and compassion.
Note: Certificates from all five courses are required as proof of completion when submitting your application.
LEVEL I
Assisting Individuals in Crisis (ICISF)
Discover the foundations of emotional “first aid.” This course teaches essential crisis intervention skills and practical steps for helping individuals navigate moments of trauma and loss.
*This is an in-person course taught by certified Christ In Action instructors.
LEVEL II
Pastoral Crisis Intervention (ICISF)
Learn how faith-based care and crisis intervention methods work hand-in-hand. This course equips you to provide both spiritual and emotional support during times of deep need.
*This is an in-person course taught by certified Christ In Action instructors.
LEVEL III
Chaplaincy Basic Training (CSI)
Explore the history, principles, and practice of chaplaincy. This accelerated course helps you understand the chaplain’s role in ministry, community service, and disaster response.
*This is an in-person course taught by certified Christ In Action instructors.
FEMA IS-700.B: National Incident Management System (NIMS)
Gain an understanding of how emergency response systems operate at the local, state, and national levels. This course explains coordination structures used during crisis situations.
*This is a free, self-paced online course available through FEMA’s training portal.
FEMA IS-800.D: National Response Framework (NRF)
Learn how communities, agencies, and organizations work together in large-scale incidents and disasters. This course emphasizes cooperation and readiness for those serving in the field.
*This is a free, self-paced online course available through FEMA’s training portal.
Ready to Begin Your Training?
Start your journey toward commissioning by completing the required courses.
How to Apply for Commissioning
Once you’ve completed the required FBFR and FEMA courses, you’ll be ready to apply for commissioning. The application process ensures each candidate is prepared—both personally and spiritually—to represent Christ In Action with integrity and care.
Application Packet
Includes a personal essay, letters of reference, and a signed Lifestyle Agreement. This agreement encourages chaplains to live above reproach and abstain from activities such as gambling, tobacco, and alcohol.
Investment
A $250 application fee is due when submitting your packet. This fee covers processing and background checks and is non-refundable.
Background Screening
To protect the integrity of CIA and those served, all applicants undergo a comprehensive screening that includes criminal, sex offender, motor vehicle, and credit checks.
Panel Review & Interview
Eligible candidates meet with the Chaplain Commissioning Panel for an interview and evaluation before final approval.
Acceptance & Commissioning
Approved candidates are commissioned as volunteer chaplains—ready to serve with Christ In Action during deployments and in their local communities, bringing prayer, presence, and the hope of Christ wherever they’re called.
Commissioning marks not just a credential—but a calling to walk beside others in their hardest moments.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’ve completed your prerequisite trainings and feel called to serve, this is where your journey as a chaplain begins.
Continuing the Call: Annual Recertification
Becoming a Christ In Action chaplain is just the beginning. Each year, commissioned chaplains renew their commitment through ongoing training, service, and connection with the CIA network. These annual steps ensure every chaplain remains equipped, supported, and ready to serve with excellence.
After commissioning, ongoing participation keeps chaplains equipped and ready to serve.
To maintain active commissioning, chaplains are required to:
Submit an annual activity and recertification report
Participate in at least one ongoing training or conference
Pay a $100 recertification fee
Continue serving through deployment, community ministry, or mentorship
These continued connections strengthen the community of chaplains who bring the hope of Christ wherever they’re called.
“The call to serve is not a one-time decision but a daily commitment to bring hope where it’s needed most.”
— Christ In Action
Additional Information & Program Details
For those ready to move forward, here’s what else to know about the commissioning process.
Course Verification
Verification of each completed course is based on certificates issued by ICISF, CSI, or FEMA at the end of training.
All FBFR course certifications earned at a Christ In Action training event are tracked and maintained by CIA.
Copies of all FEMA course certificates should be submitted to CIA for verification.
Application Fee
A $250 application fee is due when submitting your packet. This fee covers application processing and background checks and is non-refundable, including in cases where:
A candidate does not pass prescreening
Approval is not granted by the CCP panel
An applicant withdraws during the process
Background Checks
To uphold the integrity of the chaplaincy and those served, all applicants undergo a comprehensive background screening, which includes:
National Criminal File Check (with Social Security Verification)
Regional Criminal File Check
National Sex Offender Registry (NSOR)
County Courthouse Search
Federal Courthouse Search
Motor Vehicle Record
Credit Report
Application Timeline
Applications are accepted during designated windows each year, typically allowing six weeks for submission.
Those who have completed all three CIA FBFR courses will receive email notification when the application period opens.
If you’ve completed the prerequisite courses but haven’t received an update, please contact us for assistance.
Commissioning Process Flow
Each candidate progresses through a structured, multi-step process designed to ensure readiness for service and alignment with CIA’s mission and values:
CCP Prerequisite Process
CCP Application Process
CCP Prescreening Process
CCP Panel Interview
Candidate Notification Process
CCP Annual Recertification Process
This structure ensures every commissioned chaplain demonstrates the integrity, compassion, and spiritual maturity necessary to represent Christ In Action in times of crisis.
Answer the Call to Serve
Becoming a Christ In Action chaplain starts with a single step of faith.
If you feel called to serve others in times of crisis, we invite you to begin your journey today. Whether you’re starting with your first training or preparing to apply for commissioning, our team is here to walk with you every step of the way.
Need more information about the Chaplain Commissioning Program?
Get in touch with our team