Federal Endorser’s Update – Fall 2025

By Richard Ryan

I have been in this job for almost a year. For those of you that have met me, I hope you saw my desire to serve you and support you. I love chaplaincy, and I love working with you! 

During this year I have visited Japan, D.C., Fort Jackson, Maxwell AFB, Naval Station Newport, Fort Bragg, Fort Hood, Fort Rucker, and soon I will be visiting bases in Germany. I have also visited with recruiters from all branches and met with numerous chaplains in the Hampton Roads, Virginia, area where I live. I am amazed at the high quality of chaplains we have. You have a great reputation. Keep up the great work. I look forward to visiting more bases over the next fiscal year. Do not hesitate to reach out if you need prayer or support. 

Federal Chaplaincy Trends: 

A milestone worth celebrating is that we have endorsed 43 new federal chaplains and 34 chaplain candidates over the past year. That is great news. I look forward to seeing how God uses these men of God as they serve our military. 

I cannot emphasize enough the importance of nurturing your marriage. Being married to a minister is tough. Being married to a member of the military is tough. Most of you have both of those which makes you at higher risk for marriage hardships.

Remember to keep the main thing, the main thing. Take time to work on your marriage. Practice what you preach to others, and please let us know if you are struggling in your marriage. We want to pray for you and do what we can to see your marriage restored to better than it has ever been. We desire to help and support, so do not fear that your endorsement will be automatically withdrawn if you are in need. We’re here for you.   

Upcoming Travel: 

  • Sept. 13–23: Visit to Germany  
  • Oct. 20–22: Ridgecrest Chaplain Training in Black Mountain, North Carolina

Published September 8, 2025

Richard Ryan

Richard Ryan, NAMB Director of SBC Chaplaincy, Federal Endorser, serves as the Federal Service Endorser for Southern Baptist chaplains.