FAQ
What is Buddhist Chaplaincy?
Buddhist chaplaincy is a role that involves providing spiritual and emotional support within various settings, much like traditional chaplaincy in other faiths. Buddhist chaplains offer guidance, counseling, and companionship, drawing on Buddhist teachings and practices to support individuals in hospitals, hospices, prisons, military settings, universities, and other institutions.
They may assist individuals in coping with stress, illness, end-of-life care, grief, and moral or ethical dilemmas, often using mindfulness, meditation, and Buddhist philosophy as tools for support. Training for Buddhist chaplaincy typically involves a deep understanding of Buddhist principles, counseling techniques, and pastoral care, along with practical experience in offering spiritual guidance.
What is Buddhist Spiritual Care?
Buddhist spiritual care encompasses the application of Buddhist principles and practices to support individuals in various life circumstances. It involves offering emotional and spiritual guidance, often drawing from Buddhist teachings, mindfulness, meditation, and compassionate practices to help individuals navigate challenges, crises, and transitions.
Buddhist spiritual care providers assist in addressing issues related to suffering, grief, illness, end-of-life care, ethical questions, and personal growth. They may offer meditation sessions, discussions on Buddhist philosophy, and guidance on incorporating mindfulness into daily life. The aim is to support individuals in finding peace, resilience, and meaning in their experiences using Buddhist wisdom and practices.
When is ordination offered?
BBCF offers minister ordination every year in March. Exact dates will be announced in January.
When can I apply for ordination?
Applicants can apply at any time, but applications are reviewed quarterly.
What are the requirements to become an ordained chaplain/minister?
BBCF Sangha members are required to maintain connection through group Dharma study once a month or pre-arranged mentor meetings. Other requirements for ordination include:
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MDiv or Master’s Degree in a related field, e.g., education, social work, religion, psychology, etc.
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1-4 Units of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) preferred.
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Daily meditation/ritual/mindfulness practice
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Received Refuge/precept vows from qualified Buddhist Temple
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Remittance of annual membership dues
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Submission of annual activity report.
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Attendance at annual retreats and continuing education courses.
If I do not meet all the above criteria, can I still apply to be a part of BBCF?
Yes! Prospective Sangha members are welcome to apply. They will be paired with a mentor until they meet all criteria for ordination.
Does BBCF offer endorsement?
Yes. BBCF provides ecclesiastical endorsement for qualified Buddhist chaplains pursuing professional ministry and certification. Endorsement applicants are reviewed according to BBCF requirements and applicable professional or governmental standards.
What are the dues required for BBCF?
There is an application fee of $50, then after acceptance, annual dues are $200 per year. Financial assistance is available upon prior request.
