Policy on Divorce

Purpose:

To provide clarity, biblical grounding, and compassionate guidance when an ordained chaplain reports a divorce during annual renewal or within their ministry service.

Biblical Foundation:

Scripture affirms that marriage is a sacred covenant reflecting Christ’s relationship with His Church (Ephesians 5:25–32). However, because of human sin and brokenness, Scripture also identifies specific circumstances under which divorce is permissible. These include Abuse, Adultery, and Abandonment.

1. Abuse

Abuse violates both the spirit of Christian love and the safety of the marital covenant. Persistent, unrepentant abuse breaks trust and endangers the wellbeing of the spouse. Abuse may include verbal, emotional, and spiritual, and is not limited to physical.

Scriptural References: Malachi 2:16, Psalm 11:5, Ephesians 5:28–29

Policy Application: When credible reports or self-disclosures of abuse arise, the Ordination Council will meet prayerfully with the chaplain to assess whether continued ministry is appropriate. Pastoral care, counseling, and a potential season of rest may be recommended.

2. Adultery

Marital infidelity destroys the covenantal trust central to Christian marriage. Adultery is not limited to sexual relationship outside of marriage. It can include use of pornography and non-sexual emotional attachment with a different person that replaces the connection with the spouse.

Scriptural References: Matthew 19:9, Matthew 5:32, Proverbs 6:32–33

Policy Application: A chaplain who experiences or commits adultery will be invited into confidential pastoral dialogue. While restoration may be possible, the Ordination Council will discern whether continued ministry service reflects biblical and moral integrity.

3. Abandonment

When a spouse physically or emotionally deserts the marriage, Scripture allows release from the covenant. Abandonment can exist even when two people are living in the same house.

Scriptural References: 1 Corinthians 7:15, Exodus 21:10–11, 1 Timothy 5:8

Policy Application: If abandonment occurs, the Council will meet with the chaplain to determine next steps, which may include ongoing support, temporary withdrawal from active ministry, or other actions based on spiritual discernment and personal healing.

Pastoral Response and Review Process:

1. Disclosure: Any ordained chaplain who experiences divorce should indicate this on their annual renewal or communicate directly with the Ordination Council.

2. Initial Contact: A letter will be sent expressing compassion and requesting a private meeting.

3. Confidential Conversation: A Council member will meet with the chaplain to listen, pray, and discern the next steps.

4. Spiritual Care Plan: The Council may recommend counseling, temporary leave, or other measures of support.

5. Final Determination: The Council will decide whether the chaplain continues in active ministry, takes a season of rest, or voluntarily surrenders their credential.

Guiding Principle:

“Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest youtoo be tempted.” (Galatians 6:1, ESV)

Our goal is always restoration, healing, and the demonstration of Christ’s grace.