Endorsement

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Endorsement with the Alliance of Baptists

Endorsement is a covenant relationship between the Alliance of Baptists and clergy called to specialized ministry. Through endorsement, the Alliance affirms that a minister has met the standards to serve as a chaplain, clinical educator, or pastoral counselor while providing ongoing support, accountability, and connection throughout their ministry.

Alliance-endorsed chaplains serve in a wide range of settings, including hospitals and healthcare systems, all branches of the U.S. military, correctional institutions, hospice, higher education, child advocacy centers, homeless shelters, and other nonprofit organizations.

Considering Endorsement?

If you are discerning a call to chaplaincy or another specialized ministry, we'd love to walk alongside you.

The endorsement process includes application, theological reflection, interviews, and discernment with the Alliance Endorser and Endorsement Council. Applications are reviewed quarterly.

Application deadlines

  • January 1

  • April 1

  • July 1

  • October 1

Documents

Questions? Contact Rev. Amy Canosa, Alliance Endorser.

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Maintaining Endorsement

Endorsement is an ongoing covenant relationship. Endorsed clergy commit to:

  • Active participation in a local congregation

  • Continued engagement in the life of the Alliance

  • An annual contribution supporting Alliance membership

  • An annual report and affirmation of the Covenantal Code of Ethics

  • Attendance at an Alliance gathering at least once every four years

  • Ongoing ethics and professional development

  • Notifying the Endorser of significant ministry or professional changes

Military Chaplaincy

The Alliance endorses chaplains serving in every branch of the U.S. military and supports those discerning this unique calling. If you are considering military chaplaincy, review the Military Chaplain Candidate materials or contact the Alliance Endorser for more information.