Armed Forces and Federal Ministries
Photo: David Rider
The chaplains of the Episcopal Armed Forces and Federal Ministries (AFFM) provide pastoral care and inclusive spiritual support to thousands of young adults around the world in the U.S. military. The staff of AFFM work to recruit new military chaplains, endorse various federal chaplaincies, and support chaplains in their ministry through training programs, retreats, resources, and more.
Curious about becoming a chaplain?
Episcopal chaplains offer faithful, inclusive presence to those who are and have been in high-stress settings. They seek to honor Christ in every person, believing God’s intention is for the flourishing of all. This non-traditional form of ordained ministry can involve living in various places around the world and walking with people involved in active-duty combat. Explore the various pathways offered by The Episcopal Church to become a military, veterans, prison, or healthcare chaplain.
Veterans ministry
The Office of Armed Forces and Federal Ministries, in partnership with the Brotherhood of St. Andrew, is building a churchwide network of Episcopal veterans, military family members, chaplains, clergy, and lay leaders committed to strengthening support for veterans across their communities and congregations.
Resources
Chaplains and congregations looking for frequently used forms, sacramental records, handbooks, the Spanish prayer book, customaries, and more can find links on this one-stop resource page.
Our leadership
Learn more about the bishop suffragan for Armed Forces and Federal Ministries, staff members, the council of advice, the chaplain selection committee, and past bishops who have served Episcopal chaplains.
‘The Listening Post’ podcast
In Season One, this three-part series explores challenging realities faced by service members, veterans, and their families. Hosted by Bishop Ann Ritonia in conversation with the Rev. Janine Driscoll, who holds a doctorate in counseling psychology, the podcast explores faith, mental health, and service.
Just War and Pacifism
Called for by The Episcopal Church’s General Convention, the grant-funded Military Chaplains Just War Education Project explores just war theology and curates resources for military chaplains and the public.
2026-2027 Cycle of Prayer
Join other individuals, congregations, and dioceses in saying or sharing these weekly prayers for chaplains, installations, and ministries represented in the work of Episcopal Armed Forces and Federal Ministries.
The Rt. Rev. Ann Ritonia
Bishop suffragan for Armed Forces and Federal Ministries
The Rev. Maurice Dyer
Canon to the bishop suffragan
Cathleen Cowell
Associate for Armed Forces and Federal Ministries
