SELECTION OF ATF CHAPLAINS.
a. The field division SAC or delegate has overall responsibility to select local chaplains from any religious group and must ensure that all OPRSO personnel security processes are followed before an individual is assigned the official designation as an ATF chaplain.
b. To be eligible for appointment as an ATF chaplain, a candidate must never have been convicted of a felony or a domestic violence misdemeanor. A candidate must also:
(1) Submit an application to the field division in résumé format.
(2) Have a minimum of seven years as a chaplain. Experience as a law enforcement chaplain is preferred.
(3) Submit a letter of recommendation from the head of the law enforcement agency that he or she is now serving. If not currently affiliated with a law enforcement agency, a candidate may be endorsed after an interview with the local field division SAC or delegate.
(4) Be a member in good standing of the clergy of his or her religious group or denomination and be fully empowered to carry out whatever ordinances or other rites that are normally bestowed upon clergy of his or her religious group or denomination.
(5) Submit a letter of endorsement from an appropriate ecclesiastical or rabbinical official that acknowledges that the candidate may participate in the ATF Chaplain Program.
(6) Provide examples of appropriate and meaningful experience and/or training in the law enforcement chaplain field, such as letters of endorsement from local law enforcement officials and/or training certificates.
(7) Possess a genuine attitude of openness to remain nonjudgmental of all persons who may differ in their philosophy of life and ethics from the chaplain’s own belief and orientation.
(8) Participate in continuing education classes/units by such an agency as the International Conference of Police Chaplains.
(9) Receive background investigation eligibility approval from OPRSO, Personnel Security Division, prior to performing the duties of a chaplain in the ATF Chaplain