Each denomination or endorsing body that is recognized by the Department of Defense provides endorsement for chaplains. This endorsement (also referred to as "ecclesiastical approval") is one of the most important items for any chaplain or chaplain candidate to secure before you can be considered for service in the chaplaincy. For chaplains, the ecclesiastical endorsement states that: 

• You are an ordained minister or member in good standing of the respective denomination or body
• You have completed a certain number of years of ministry experience
• The denomination approves of your serving as a military chaplain