Frequently asked questions
Answers to common questions about chaplaincy and our programmes.
Is there a difference between a pastor and a chaplain?
Yes. Pastors and chaplains are trained differently and serve in different ministries. Here are some key differences:
| Pastors | Chaplains |
|---|---|
| Ministry is church-based | Ministry goes beyond the church: it is community- and institution-based. Chaplains are the bridge between the secular and the sacred. |
| Serve members of the same faith | Serve people of all faiths |
| Members go to church where the pastor is | Chaplains go to where people are working, studying, healing, serving or imprisoned |
| Trained to teach and lead in specific denominational doctrines and beliefs | Trained to talk to and counsel people from a variety of faith backgrounds. Chaplains are supportive listeners more than verbal advisors. |
| Shares his or her faith with members | Meets the needs of the client, and does not share his or her own beliefs unless asked |
Why should I register for the Certificate or Diploma in Chaplaincy?
Our chaplaincy studies combine theory and practical work. The theory equips every chaplain with the right concepts to approach everyday life challenges, while the practical work exposes students to real-life situations so they can practise what they have learnt in class.
This all-round training means our students are qualified to serve in many different settings.
What is the minimum qualification to join?
Certificate in Chaplaincy: KCSE D (plain) and above.
Diploma in Chaplaincy: a pass in your previous qualification, or the Certificate in Chaplaincy (Level 5), or KCSE mean grade of C- and above or its equivalent, or an A-Level certificate with at least two principal passes and one subsidiary or its equivalent, or a distinction or credit from an accredited institution.
How long is the course?
- Certificate in Chaplaincy: 1 year, offered over 3 trimesters
- Diploma in Chaplaincy: 2 years, offered over 6 trimesters
Where can I serve after completing my studies?
Chaplains are trained to serve in many settings, including schools, universities, hospitals, correctional ministry, sports, the military, the police and other institutions.
We believe the need for trained chaplains is far greater than the supply:
- In 2016, the Cabinet Secretary for Education announced that all public high schools would be required to have a trained chaplain serving their students, creating a large demand in the education sector.
- Institutions in Kenya increasingly recognise the role chaplains play. Between January and July 2019, more than ten institutions advertised chaplaincy vacancies, including AIC Githumu Mission Hospital, PAC University, Nova Pioneer Schools and Brookhurst International.
Still have a question?
Email soc@tenwekhosp.org or call +254 728 091 900 (Ext 1315 / 1334).