Encourage the younger generation to be the hands and feet of Christ by allowing youth to participate in training and serving their community in Chaplaincy
Give interested youth access to the Chaplain ministry in a controlled and safe environment appropriate to their individual capacity and ministry interests
Students can serve in the Cadet program if one or more of their parents/legal guardians are a licensed Chaplain.
Chaplain Cadets serve under the direct supervision of a Chaplain parent or guardian while participating in Chaplain events and ministry and representing the I.F.O.C. Their supervising parent/guardian must be present with the Cadet at all times during their service.
Cadets function as a Chaplain as an extension of the parent Chaplain’s license and do not hold their own independent Chaplain license.
Who can participate in the Cadet program?
Youth between the ages of 15-17 whose parent or legal guardian is a Licensed Chaplain can participate in the Cadet Program.
What is the credentialing process for Cadets?
Entrance into the Cadet program requires an initial interview with the head of the Cadet Program. Potential cadets will attend the regular I.F.O.C. Chaplain Course (see schedule & info here). Then, Cadets fill out the licensing application minus the background check, reference letters, and pastor recommendation form. They will turn in these items when they turn 18 to be transitioned into a fully Licensed Chaplain.
What does the Cadet application require?
The Cadet application is the same as the adult Chaplain application except there is no need for a background check, business letter, or pastor recommendation form. The Cadet application also requires a parent waiver.
What are the application and membership fees for the Cadet program?
The initial Cadet application fee is $125.00. The annual recertification fee is also $125.00.
Can a Cadet become a licensed Chaplain after they turn 18?
Once a Cadet turns 18, they have the opportunity to convert their credentials to a Licensed or Ordained status. In order to become a Licensed or Ordained Chaplain, they will submit a pastor’s recommendation form, two business references, a background check, and a resume of the community service they have been involved in as a Cadet. Approved applicants will then be issued a Licensed or Ordained certificate and ID and their annual dues will increase to $250 at the date of their next renewal. No fee is charged when they initially convert their license, only at their annual renewal date.
What are the uniform requirements for Cadets?
I.F.O.C. will provide every Cadet one green community service logo polo and plastic pocket badge that clearly identifies them as a “Cadet.” Additional or replacement shirts and badges can be purchased by the Cadet if desired. Cadets will wear black or khaki dickies-style pants and/or shorts. They will not wear BDU style pants. They may wear any reasonable closed-toed tennis shoe or similar shoe. They may also wear black Oxford shoes and/or Boots (as identified in the regular I.F.O.C. Uniform Manual). All Cadets will use the Community Service logo badge and emblems. They are not permitted to use the Star logo. Cadets will follow the rest of the uniform guidelines as written in the Uniform manual, except Cadets will not be able to wear the Class A uniform shirts.
Can cadets be awarded rank?
Cadets will not be awarded rank but may be awarded ribbon awards.Credentialing in the International Fellowship of Chaplains shall be open to Chaplains, Ministers and Ministries whose religious background, teachings, programs, biblical standards and standards are acceptable to the governing body of the fellowship.
