BOP Program Statement 3939.08 § 1

To establish standards and procedures by which Chaplains are hired and maintain their

employment with the Federal Bureau of Prisons (Bureau). This Program Statement also:

■ Outlines hiring considerations for Chaplains.

■ Describes the personal and professional ministry qualifications for Chaplains.

■ Describes procedures for maintaining and changing religious endorsement.

■ Defines the promoting procedures for Chaplains.

■ Determines the unique duties and work schedules for Chaplains.

■ Details the training requirements for Chaplains.

a. Summary of Changes

Policy Rescinded

P3939.07 CN-1 Chaplains’ Employment, Responsibilities, and Endorsements (2/9/2022)

Clarified and updated chaplaincy processes and training opportunities.

b. Program Objectives.

■ The hiring procedures for chaplains will be centralized and standardized.

■ The endorsement process for chaplains will ensure professional and ecclesiastical integrity of

those called to serve as pastors to inmates.

■ The Bureau's ministry will be enhanced and made more effective by support from religious

bodies which represent the diverse religious needs of the inmate population.

■ Ecclesiastical and ministerial duties and work schedules of chaplains will be delineated.

c. Institution Supplement. None required. Should local facilities make any changes

outside changes required in national policy or establish any additional local procedures

to implement national policy, the local Union may invoke to negotiate procedures or

appropriate arrangements.