Chaplain Resourcing Reimagined: How the New Chaplain Resource Network is Transforming Chaplaincy Training Worldwide

A groundbreaking initiative is changing the game for chaplaincy training and professional development. The Marsh Institute for Chaplains has partnered with three leading faith-based organizations to launch the Chaplain Resource Network (CRN), a collaborative training hub that's designed to expand access to high-quality chaplaincy resources on a global scale.

The Challenge: Building Better Chaplains, Faster

Here's the reality: Chaplains are often called into moments of crisis, grief, trauma, transition, and moral complexity. Yet many organizations seeking to build chaplaincy programs face the same daunting challenge—developing consistent, credible, and practical training materials that require time, funding, and specialized expertise.

For too long, this barrier to entry has meant that chaplains enter some of the most demanding ministry contexts without consistent training, accessible resources, or in-the-moment support. Until now.

Introducing the Chaplain Resource Network: A Solution Built for Scale

The Chaplain Resource Network brings together the Marsh Institute for Chaplains, Clinical Pastoral Education International, Community Chaplain Network, and Hope Thru Faith Foundation in an unprecedented collaborative effort. Together, these organizations are building a shared resource platform to help institutions train and support chaplains wherever they serve.

"CRN reimagines the delivery of chaplain resources," explains Dr. Jim Browning, Director of the Marsh Institute for Chaplains. "In a world where organizations often have to build training from scratch, this collaborative effort reflects a shared commitment to equip and support chaplains with resources that are academically rigorous, outcomes-based, standards-aligned, and ready for real-world chaplaincy practice."

What's Inside the CRN Library?

The CRN is being developed as a modular library of chaplaincy training materials designed for maximum flexibility and accessibility. Organizations can leverage these resources across:

• Certificate programs
• Continuing education offerings
• Online courses and workshops
• Institutional training programs
• Degree pathways

The materials are intentionally designed to be adaptable, allowing each participating organization to use CRN resources in line with its own mission, identity, and standards.

Currently, the CRN library includes 238 lessons in total, with 40 modules already complete and 198 actively in development. The network continues to expand, with more modules in the planning stages, ensuring fresh, relevant content as chaplaincy needs evolve.

The CRN "store" is projected to open by the end of July 2026, making these resources available to institutions worldwide.

Why This Matters: Real-World Perspectives from the Field

Master Chaplain Ken Schlenker, who founded CAREForce and now serves as Director of the Chaplain Resource Network, brings decades of experience in public safety, crisis response, and community chaplaincy training. His vision is clear:

"For too long, chaplains have entered some of the most demanding ministry contexts without consistent training, accessible resources, or in-the-moment support. We are changing that. This resource means a chaplain in the field is never alone, and an institution building a chaplaincy program never has to start from scratch."

Dr. Dallas E. Speight, Chief Executive Officer of Clinical Pastoral Education International, emphasizes the practical benefits:

"Chaplains need training that is credible, practical, and accessible. CRN strengthens the pipeline from formation to service by enabling high-quality content to be developed once and delivered broadly."

The urgency is especially acute for community chaplains. Chaplain Scott Speight, Chief Executive Officer of Community Chaplain Network, notes:

"Community chaplains live on the front edge of crisis, grief, and trauma. CRN helps place proven resources into the hands of practitioners in ways that are timely, consistent, and missionally grounded."

Dr. Michael Langston, Chief Executive Officer of Hope Thru Faith Foundation, frames the initiative in terms of broader mission impact:

"CRN is a collaborative way to strengthen faithful presence—bringing together theologically grounded resources and field readiness so chaplains can serve with compassion, clarity, and endurance."

A Network Designed for the Future

The Chaplain Resource Network is designed to support chaplain formation in multiple contexts and to provide resources that can be distributed across formats, channels, and languages. This flexibility ensures that whether an organization is launching its first chaplaincy program or enhancing an established one, they have access to the same high-quality, field-tested materials.

The network is also preparing for broader institutional access, strategic alliances, and continued curriculum development—ensuring that the CRN remains responsive to the evolving needs of chaplains and the organizations they serve.

Join the Movement

Whether you represent a seminary, denomination, community organization, or faith-based institution, the Chaplain Resource Network is ready to support your chaplaincy training and development goals.

Ready to explore how CRN can transform chaplaincy training at your organization?

• Visit the CRN platform: www.ChaplainResourceNetwork.com
• Learn more about the Marsh Institute: www.marshinstitute.org

For additional information, contact: Dr. Jim Browning, Director Marsh Institute for Chaplains 📧 [email protected] 📱 (210) 417-6040