1.2. Updated resume that includes academic documents and ministerial background:

1.2.1. College degree: Degree in theology, divinity, pastoral ministry or spirituality granted or acknowledged by an accredited academic institution or 40 hours of continuing education in theology

1.2.2. Minimum of 12 semester units in counseling, psychology or related field

1.3. Verification of current endorsement: formal approval of Bishop in Diocese of candidate’s residence for a priest, deacon or lay person; or by a candidate’s major superior if a member of a religious orderApproval of the Bishop of the Diocese(s) in which the correctional ministry is conducted

1.4. Verification of education in recognizing and reporting abuse (e.g., VIRTUS, arch/diocesan workshops, etc.)

1.5. Verification of criminal background check

1.6. Competency with completion of one Clinical Pastoral Education Unit (CPE Unit) or equivalency of supervised pastoral training. Final evaluations of supervisor(s) of completed units and/or equivalencies. As CPE accredited programs of the USCCB/CCA or ACPE become more available, as well as paid positions within corrections, more may be required by 2017. Documentation of four (4) successfully completed units of Clinical Pastoral Education from USCCB/CCA accredited programs or ACPE-accredited centers is encouraged.

1.7. Completed narrative statement which explains and documents how he/she demonstrates each of the competencies required for certification (5-page minimum, not to exceed 10 pages)

1.8. Three letters of recommendation: one from immediate supervisor and two from candidate choice

1.9. An autobiography that addresses personal, professional and faith development of the candidate (5-page minimum, not to exceed 10 pages)

 2.       The qualifications for candidates applying for certification include the following:

2.1. ACCCA membership for two (2) years and payment of the ACCCA annual dues

2.2. Minimum of two (2) years’ ministerial experience, a portion of which in a correctional setting

 3. Knowledge of and adherence to the ACCCA and Common Code of Ethics for Chaplains, Pastoral Counselors, Pastoral Educators and Students

(Source: ACCCA Certification Handbook, 2010, pages14-15)

Application and further information may be obtained by emailing Julien Olivier, D.Min., ACCCA Certification Committee Chair, through this website (Select the Contact tab at the top of the page and your query will be forwarded).