Training and formation

Prepared for service, grounded in responsibility.

Basic Chaplaincy Education introduces the spiritual, ethical, organizational, and practical foundations expected of an RCI chaplain.

BCE is an RCI formation requirement. No academic accreditation, professional licensure, or governmental credential is claimed.

The pathway

Formation before commissioning.

RCI Americas membership includes a required Basic Chaplaincy Education pathway. The training establishes a common vocabulary for Christian chaplaincy, responsible practice, institutional identity, and disciplined service.

Completion supports the pathway toward RCI certification and commissioning according to current institutional requirements. Dates, format, facilitators, and intake details are announced through official RCI Americas channels.

Review membership requirements
An RCI Americas chaplain taking an oath during a commissioning ceremony

BCE formation

Study in service of faithful presence.

Core subjects

A broad foundation for faithful practice.

The curriculum introduces the following areas as part of RCI chaplain formation.

Introduction to Basic Chaplaincy Education

The sacredness of chaplaincy service

Biblical foundations for chaplaincy

Duties and responsibilities across the structure

Personal edification and spiritual formation

Commissioning and decommissioning

Rules of engagement and responsible conduct

RCI identity and anthem

The chaplain and the law

Drills, uniforms, and organizational ranks

Appropriate interaction with security personnel

Training descriptions are informational. Current schedules, assessment details, delivery formats, and commissioning requirements are confirmed with each approved intake.

Take the next step

Ready to explore the membership pathway?

Review eligibility, required information, and the confirmed registration fee before an application intake opens.

Membership information