WELS Chaplain Certificate Program
Code of Ethics
I. Working relationships
WELS chaplains commit to honor the trust of all whom they serve and with whom they work by not engaging in any form of sexual impropriety, harassment, inappropriate behaviors or gestures, proselytizing, or therapy beyond their expertise. They will not seek personal gain through knowledge they gather or by exploiting relationships. They will refrain from using titles for themselves, terms regarding their work, or any specific clothing which would falsely represent themselves beyond their education or areas of expertise.
II. Pastoral relationships
Although WELS chaplains recognize that there are many differences among people, they will not condone or engage in prejudicial treatment based on age, color, culture, disability, ethnic group, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, marital, or socioeconomic status, but will “speak the truth in love” (Ephesians 4:15) to all, for God’s truth is the same for all people. Each person will be considered of equal value, with a body, mind, and spirit created by God and redeemed by Christ. When asked about their faith, they will be guided by 1 Peter 3:15: “Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” Their goal is to provide a listening ear, to support and complement people’s coping skills with Christian compassion and God’s Word, and to offer appropriate and effective referral for individual needs.
III. Inter-professional relationships
WELS chaplains will work amicably with and support other professionals within and outside of the work environment in a scripturally appropriate manner. They will not interfere with their area of ministry/expertise, but seek cordial, mutually respectful relationships.
WELS chaplains will respect the private communications of colleagues, unless doing so would violate the safety and well-being of another person or be in conflict with Scripture, the laws or policies of the state, or of the institution in which the chaplain is working.
IV. Confidentiality
WELS chaplains will maintain confidentiality and not disclose information to anyone, except as mandated by institutional practice or by law, in order to prevent immediate danger to someone, or by written permission.
WELS chaplains will maintain records that are required by appropriate agencies. All such records will be reported and maintained in such a way as to ensure confidentiality.
WELS chaplains providing spiritual care to minors or to individuals who cannot decide for themselves will consult and seek consent from the parents or guardians.
V. Accountability
WELS chaplains will be accountable to their denomination, their sponsoring organizations (congregation and church body), and to the facility, agency, or group they serve as chaplains.
As opportunities arise, WELS chaplains will state their denominational affiliation, as well as professional qualifications, affiliations, or certifications with honesty and integrity.
Accountability will include meeting the standards established for certification by the WELS Chaplain Certificate Program Committee, including ongoing education and training.
WELS chaplains may find it beneficial to join one or more national chaplaincy organizations for networking, educational, or certification purposes. Membership in such organizations may be pursued if consistent with the principles of God’s Word.
WELS chaplains will provide to the appropriate agencies prompt notice of any complaint of unethical conduct made against them in any professional organization’s forum. Chaplains will provide to the appropriate agencies all information requested in regard to such complaints, while maintaining appropriate confidentiality. In cases of uncertainty, chaplains are advised to seek legal counsel.
