Today Venerable Zhen Guan commissioned as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army Chaplain Candidate program. Venerable Zhen Guan is a monk originally from mainland China and a first year student in the MDIV program. Chaplain (1LT) Christoper Mohr, a December 2011 graduate of the program, administered the oath. Chaplain Candidate (Ens.) Aroon Seeda, current student, held the Vimalakirti Sutra upon which Ven. Zhen Guan swore his oath. Chaplain Candidates (2LTs) Songkran Waiyaka and Niphon Sukuan stood at attention while the oath was administered. Students, friends, and staff looked on to support Ven. Zhen Guan in his aspiration to be of service to the men and women of the U.S. Army.
Thanks to UWEST Buddhist Chaplaincy Club for the info!
(We still need a USAF Buddhist Chaplain Candidate!)
5 comments:
What are the chaplaincy requirements?
Sunim,
Please go to the links on the various military chaplains pages on the right side of this blog. Each branch will give the requirements to be a chaplain in that branch.
Also click on the link to the Buddhist Churches of America web site. the BCA is the only endorser for Buddhist chaplains currently.
Air Force didn't have a candidate program, last I checked. That makes it tough. Although, if the Army won't waive the 2-year post-graduation ministry requirement, there might be a few "inquiries" soon.
Air Force didn't have a candidate program, last I checked. That makes it tough. Although, if the Army won't waive the 2-year post-graduation ministry requirement, there might be a few "inquiries" soon.
So I am a member of the Sangha in Monterey and I have decided that I want to become a Jodo Shinshu Chaplain. I am 9 year enlisted in the Navy and I am trying to work out my plan of action. My Reverend, Reverend Shinseki told me about you. He is helping me gather information from the Side of BCA. I would really like to meet you. I am driving through San Diego in July. I would really like to hear your personal story.
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