Frequently
Asked Questions
1. What is the mission of the New York State Association
of Fire Chaplains (NYSAFC)?
The mission of the New York State Association of Fire Chaplains
is to unite all Fire Chaplains of the State of New York in order
to promote a deeper and wider knowledge of one another in the
true ecumenical spirit and to establish statewide procedures
of standardization in serving our fellow firefighters, Emergency
Medical Services (EMS), and God, our supreme Chief.
2.
Should I wear a gold or silver badge?
The badge is up to the discretion of the department
of which you are a member. However it is the recommendation
of the NYSAFC that chaplains should wear a gold badge. In
the city of New York chaplains, for example, hold the rank
of Battalion Chief.
3.
Where do Fire Chaplains march in a parade?
In a New York State sanctioned parade the chaplains
march in the following formation:
The Chiefs march directly behind the band (20ft). Their formation
is as follows:
The
above regulations are from the New York State Volunteer Fireman’s
Parade and Drill Teams Captains Association.
4. Should Chaplains wear turnout gear at a fire?
The answer to this question is yes. For the sake
of the chaplain’s safety, it is best if they are afforded
the same personal protection equipment (PPE) as every other
firefighter. It is also recommended by NYSAFC that the chaplain’s
PPE should be clearly marked as chaplain. As to whether the
helmet should be white (usually reserved for chiefs) or any
other color that should according to the protocols of the
local Fire Department or Fire Company.
5.
Can I belong to the Association even if I live in a state
other than New York?
Yes. Membership is available for chaplains outside
of New York. Such a chaplain would hold the rank of Associate
Member which includes all of the privileges of regular membership
except for the right of holding an office and voting privileges.
6.
Do you have training materials?
On our supply page, you can find a manual, training
tapes and soon a training CD. You will find materials covering
prayers, ceremonies, dedications, Memorial Services, Line
of Duty Death, funeral services and the like.
7.
Do you have prayers for blessing of new apparatus, buildings,
etc.?
In our Chaplains Manual, you will find a variety
of prayers.
8.
How often does the association meet?
We have an annual conference that meets at the end
of April. There are some training events throughout the year
in different parts of the state. The web page will try to
keep updated as to where and when these events occur.
The
Board of Directors meets three times a year usually in September,
February, and April.
9. What are the benefits of being a "Life Member?"
Life Member status is given to members of the association who have paid their dues for seven consecutive years. It is an honorary recognition for being a member for that period of time. Life Members are still expected to pay dues to retain their membership in the association.
