USCC Chaplain Oath of Commitment

United States Chaplain Corps (USCC) Chaplain Oath of Commitment

As a chaplain in the United States Chaplain Corps,

I solemnly pledge to uphold the traditions, practices, and principles of my religious body while fostering a spirit of cooperation and respect within the pluralistic environment in which I serve.

I recognize the sacred duty entrusted to me to provide pastoral care to individuals and families, irrespective of their religious affiliation.

I commit to the following principles:

Stewardship of Tradition:

I pledge to hold in trust the traditions and practices of my religious body, adhering faithfully to the direction provided by my endorsing body to maintain my endorsement.

Interfaith Collaboration:

I will work collaboratively with chaplains of other faiths, striving to provide pastoral care for all people and their families in a manner that respects their beliefs while also honoring the traditions of my own religious body.

I will seek to deliver the highest level of care to individuals from diverse faith backgrounds with the same dedication I offer to members of my own religious body.

Respect for Religious Differences:

When conducting services, I will draw from shared values and beliefs, fostering unity in ministry while acknowledging and respecting the distinctive practices of others. I will, if not in a supervisory capacity, respect the religious practices and beliefs of the chaplains under my care, refraining from requiring them to perform duties that conflict with their faith practices.

Professional Ministry:

I will work to support my colleagues, building constructive relationships and maintaining a cooperative approach to ministry. I will also ensure that I maintain a disciplined approach to my own ministry through regular prayer, personal development, and maintaining healthful and balanced life habits.

Dignity and Equality:

I will affirm the right of all individuals, regardless of background or identity, to the free exercise of religion, and I will defend my colleagues and the individuals under my pastoral care against discrimination of any kind.

Confidentiality:

I will uphold the sanctity of all privileged communications entrusted to me during my ministry and will refrain from disclosing such communications without proper authorization.

Integrity in Ministry:

I will avoid proselytizing or attempting to change the faith of others and will engage in ministry with genuine love and respect for all people. I recognize the special responsibility of my position and will never use my role to manipulate or violate the dignity of others, particularly in matters of religion, emotions, or personal relationships.

Accountability:

I affirm my unwavering commitment to maintaining the integrity of the chaplaincy profession and will hold myself and my fellow chaplains accountable for our actions in accordance with the United States Chaplain Corps Code of Discipline and the USCC Code of Ethics.

I pledge to support the principles of these codes and will faithfully engage in their purpose to promote professionalism, dignity, and ethical conduct.

So help me God.