A Ministry Chaplain is a trusted spiritual leader who serves in community settings outside the traditional church structure. Ministry Chaplains offer guidance, encouragement, and Christ-centered care to people during life’s most meaningful—and often most difficult—moments.
Whether leading a wedding ceremony, praying at a community gathering, or walking with someone through grief, Ministry Chaplains represent the love of Jesus in personal and practical ways.
As the apostle Paul reminds us in Galatians 6:2 (WEB):
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
That’s what Ministry Chaplains do every day—they step in to help carry the burdens of others.
The need for chaplains is growing. Local groups, nonprofit organizations, and everyday people are looking for someone they can turn to for spiritual encouragement and support. Many of these settings don’t have access to a full-time pastor—but a Ministry Chaplain can fill that gap.
Unlike career chaplains who serve in the military or healthcare systems, Ministry Chaplains are often volunteers or part-time ministers. Their presence is powerful because it’s personal. They serve with flexibility, love, and calling—right where people need them most.
To become a Ministry Chaplain, Christian Leaders Institute offers a robust training path called the Licensed Coaching Minister Program. This flexible, affordable program blends traditional ministry preparation with modern coaching techniques.
You’ll be equipped to:
It typically takes 9–15 months of part-time study to complete the program, depending on your pace.
The Ministry Chaplain track is a Level 2 Endorsement credential. To qualify, students must maintain a 2.0 GPA and complete 22 credit hours through the Christian Leaders Institute.
Required Courses:This program not only prepares you for ministry—it also empowers you to coach others into growth, healing, and faith.
This path is perfect for retirees, working professionals, single individuals, or anyone called to serve in a more hands-on, relational way.
At 50 years old, Steven Bridges stands in the prime of a new season—one that reflects redemption, obedience, and a deep calling to serve others as a Ministry Chaplain.
Born and raised in Sacramento, California, Steven’s journey into ministry has been anything but conventional. But through every detour, wilderness, and whisper from the Lord, God was preparing him for a life of service on the frontlines of trauma, transformation, and spiritual care.
“I literally spent 40 years just like Moses wandering through the desert… rebellious, disobedient, doubtful. My life was the mess you’d expect from someone drifting away from the Lord. Yet through all of that, He was there—still guiding, nudging, and whispering.”
Though Steven gave his life to Christ at 8, his spiritual journey was marked by ups and downs. Raised in a home where faith wasn’t welcomed, he wandered for decades—until God called him out of everything familiar.
“The Lord told me to leave my family, my home, everything I knew and was comfortable with… and to learn truck driving. He wanted me for a few years without distractions—so I could finally listen.”
On the road as a long-haul truck driver, Steven experienced profound spiritual growth. The solitude became sacred space. The cab of the truck became a sanctuary.
“It was awe-inspiring. It was as if the whole experience on the road was to have me experience true dying of self… picking up my cross and wholeheartedly seeking the Kingdom of God.”
Back in Sacramento, Steven immersed himself in ministry—serving in men’s groups, prayer teams, and children’s ministry. A divine connection with a local chaplain affirmed his calling. He soon became a Law Enforcement Chaplain, supporting officers and families during moments of crisis.
“The ordination I have received through CLI/CLA gives me the confidentiality and clergy privilege needed for this next step.”
His training and credentials with Christian Leaders Alliance have opened doors for deeper ministry—both in his church and on the streets.
Steven now raises his great-nephews, serves full-time in ministry, and studies full-time at CLI—all without income.
“There’s absolutely no way I would be able to go to seminary… But God led me to CLI.”
With over 139 credits, five classic credentials, and 11 specializations, Steven is currently pursuing the Minister of the Word Award and Chaplaincy Diploma.
“I am blown away by the amount of courses and options. I’ve even wondered what it would be like to complete every course.”
Kingdom Chaplain Commissioned to Serve on the Frontlines of Care, Crisis, and Christ-Centered Leadership A Calling Beyond the Church Walls The Kingdom Chaplain Specialization is one of the most advanced clergy credentials offered through the Christian Leaders Alliance. This powerful program prepares Christian ministers to carry the presence of Christ into places where people face […]
Becoming a Funeral Officiant: Proclaiming Hope Through Grief When hearts are broken and grief feels overwhelming, a Christian funeral officiant becomes a beacon of comfort, eternal perspective, and Christ’s presence. Across the globe, these ministers stand in sacred spaces—whether rural chapels or urban sanctuaries—guiding families through one of life’s most difficult moments. The Role of […]
The Chaplain Lifestyle: A Calling to Serve with Presence and Purpose Officiating Chaplain Trained to officiate weddings and funerals with biblical confidence and legal recognition. Ministry Chaplain Equipped to offer spiritual care and pastoral support in local churches, communities, and civic settings. Kingdom Chaplain Commissioned to serve as a movement leader in chaplaincy, outreach, and […]
Notifications
