No. While theological or related qualifications are welcome, they are not required.
What matters is that you have a genuine calling and at least 2 years of active experience in ministry, outreach, community service, or a similar people-centredfield. If you are unsure, contact us — we are happy to assess your backgroundpersonally.

MCC is a Christian-founded organisation, and our values are rooted in the Christian faith. However, we welcome participants of other faiths who are committed to serving within MCC’s interfaith and ethical framework. The training equips chaplains to serve individuals of any faith background without imposition. People of faith from all traditions who share our commitment to compassionate care are welcome to apply.

The MCC 5-Day Community Chaplaincy Short Course is not currently SETA-accredited. This is because chaplaincy does not yet exist as a registered occupational qualification on the national QCTO framework — a challenge that affects all chaplaincy bodies in South Africa. Our certificate carries genuine value within the chaplaincy community and within MCC’s growing network of

institutional partners. For those seeking formal accreditation, MCC partners with

the Theo Institute of Health Studies, which offers accredited qualifications that

complement your MCC training. The courses can be found at

https://www.theoinstituteofhealthstudies.co.za/courses/

The full course fee of R3 500.00 is required before training begins. We are not currently able to accommodate payment plans for the training itself. If this presents a genuine challenge, please reach out to us — we may be able to provide guidance or assist you in connecting with the next available intake.

Full attendance across all five days is required to receive your certificate. If you anticipate missing a session due to an emergency, please inform us as soon as possible. We will assess the situation and advise you on whether you can complete the missed content in a future intake.

After training, you will enter a field learning phase where you join experienced chaplains on community outreach and volunteer engagements. This is compulsory before you formally graduate. Once graduated, you are invited to join the MCC Chaplain Network, receive your membership card, and be part of the growing national chaplaincy movement. MCC also offers ongoing development through semi

Yes. All applicants are required to declare that they have no criminal record. Chaplains work in environments with vulnerable people — including hospitals, schools, and correctional services — and our code of conduct demands the highest standards of integrity

All graduates who maintain their annual membership receive an official MCC Membership Card. The MCC Chaplain Badge is available as part of your identity as a registered chaplain. The standard MCC uniform is optional and can be purchased for R1 100.00. The uniform is recommended for those serving in institutional settings. A uniform catalogue is provided with a range of uniform or accessories (e.g. car stickers) that Chaplains can purchase.

Training classes rotate across different communities and provinces. The best way to stay informed is to follow us on Facebook (facebook.com/medicalchaplaincy), contact us via email at admin@medicalchaplaincy.co.za, or reach out directly to Chaplain Edwin Masupha or Chaplain Shamim Nong.

Chaplaincy at MCC is currently voluntary for most chaplains. While formal paid opportunities are emerging as the sector grows, most chaplains serve within their existing roles — as healthcare workers, teachers, pastors, community leaders — with chaplaincy as an added calling. The Grace Guard membership does, however, provide income-generating opportunities through its entrepreneurship programme, which all chaplain members can participate in