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About

The National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC) has prepared and supported chaplains and pastoral care ministers since its founding in 1965. Our mission is to serve as advocates for the profession of spiritual care and educate, certify, and support chaplains, clinical pastoral educators, and all members who continue the healing ministry of Jesus in the name of the Church.

The NACC is a national Catholic association affiliated with but separate from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.  Since our founding, we have prepared, certified, and supported countless chaplains and pastoral care ministers serving in every state and (arch) diocese. Currently, there are almost 2,000 members of the NACC bringing compassionate care to those who need it.

We are building infrastructure and expanding our ministry to help meet the tremendous need for chaplains and pastoral care ministers serving healthcare organizations, parishes, schools, correctional facilities, first responder ministries, and communities throughout the country.

This is an extraordinary moment for Catholics. Pope Francis is calling us to radically rethink ecclesial life, challenging us to give priority to the wounded and to travel to the peripheries to accompany those living on the margins.

We hope that you will join us in this important work. Please continue to pray for the many people who are suffering, that they come to know the healing ministry of Christ.

Mission

The National Association of Catholic Chaplains advocates for the profession of spiritual care and educates, certifies, and supports chaplains, clinical pastoral educators, and all members who continue the healing ministry of Jesus in the name of the Church.

Vision

The National Association of Catholic Chaplains (NACC) is cultivating the ministry of chaplaincy and transforming spiritual care locally, nationally, and globally to faithfully reflect the healing presence of Jesus Christ by:

  • forming life-giving relationships with individuals, families, colleagues, and organizations;
  • advancing compassionate care through creative educational and spiritual growth opportunities;
  • promoting the dignity of persons of every age, culture, and state in life.

NACC is a light of hope, whose members are persistently advocating for those dedicated to the spiritual care of people experiencing pain, vulnerability, joy, and hope.

Ministry Focus

The National Association of Catholic Chaplains advances the professional growth and ministerial formation of its members so all people can receive competent and compassionate pastoral and spiritual care. NACC advocates for the spiritual care profession and educates, certifies, and supports its members.

Values

Discipleship - Reflecting on and following the mission of Jesus in head, heart, and action.

Integrity - Living out the Gospel in all we do.

Stewardship - Developing and utilizing wisely the gifts and resources entrusted to us.

Compassion - Responding to the call of Jesus by sharing the suffering, hope, and joy of others.

Inclusivity - Welcoming, honoring, and fostering diversity that deepens our unity.

Professionalism - Providing competent and effective ministry within the field of spiritual care.

Leadership - Collaborating to develop and nurture the necessary gifts for the direction of our ministry.

Empowerment - Encouraging others to use their gifts within and beyond professional spiritual care.