Job Title: Chaplain
Site: Bland Correctional Center (256 Bland Rd., Bland, VA 24315)
Job Summary: The Chaplain serves as a Christian “pastor” and also as the coordinator for all religious services and programs for inmates of all approved faiths (Christian & non-Christian) at Bland Correctional Center, a Level 1/2 (medium security) facility operated by the Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC). The inmate population at Bland usually stands at 700 male felons.
Coverage/Compensation (Part-Time): 65 hours per month at $26.00/hr. = gross monthly & annual salaries of $1,690 & $20,280 respectively. No benefits are available. Note: Nearest Cities
Tazewell: 28.5-mile commute ( one way)
Roanoke: 72.5 mile commute (one way)
Main Job Tasks, Responsibilities, Required Skills & Qualifications:
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- Preach, teach and lead worship.
- Coordinate and oversee all religious services and programs for all faiths.
- Provide pastoral care and spiritual guidance to inmates, inmate family members and prison staff in accordance with relevant security policies and procedures.
- Recruit and coordinate religious volunteers.
- Perform administrative tasks such as religious program pass lists, monthly reports, etc.
- Respond to inmate requests regarding religious issues.
- Interact with DOC administrators and staff in regards to religious program management.
- Advocate for the religious and human rights of all inmates of all recognized faith groups.
- Handle the distribution of religious literature and materials.
- Possess skills normally associated with pastoral leadership (preaching, leading worship services, teaching, pastoral care, administrative duties, etc.).
- Ability to work in a prison environment – interact with inmates of all faiths, function within the prison’s chain of command, set professional boundaries with offenders, and complete all required orientation and security training.
- Possess time management and organizational skills (report deadlines, etc.).
- Hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited college/university (required). A Master of Divinity or equivalent degree from an accredited theological seminary is preferred, but is not mandatory. GraceInside requires proof of education, i.e. copies of diplomas, certificates, and (when feasible) transcripts.
- Computer literacy: The applicant should be fluent in the use of standard administrative software platforms (Word, Excel, etc.) in order to handle administrative correspondence and data entry operations (essential).
- Ordination: Fully ordained and currently in full connection and good standing with his/her denominational body, church, etc.
- Endorsement: Where applicable, endorsed by his/her responsible denominational agency as to current good standing and confirmation of abilities to perform the duties related to chaplaincy. Endorsement is preferred but not mandatory.
- Preferred, but not required: At least one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) and three to five years of pastoral ministry or other ministerial experience.
To apply for this position, please print out the Chaplain’s Job Application. Hand fill out the application, scan the completed copy, and submit to:Mail@GraceInside.org or 804.358.7650. Add your resume with your application and, if available copies of your college/seminary transcripts, as well as other relevant degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
Deadline: The application is due on August 1, 2024
