The School of Military Spiritual Formation

Mission-Focused. Spiritually Grounded. Clinically Excellent.

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Trusted by over 250 military chaplains and spiritual care professionals.

What Military Chaplains Are Saying

"This was one of the most meaningful experiences of my life. I became a better listener—to God, to my family, and to my soldiers."

- LTC Lance Sellon, Army National Guard

"I had avoided CPE for 30 years. This program made me confront emotions I’d long buried—and I’m better for it."

- Lt. Col. Daryl Hamaker, Air National Guard

"I didn’t expect a CPE program to respect my theology. This one did—and it deepened both my convictions and my empathy.'

- Andy, Chaplain Candidate

"I was told CPE was about death. What I found was formation for life—learning to walk with others, not fix them"

- Michael, Student

"This program is creating the next generation of mentors and menders. I’ve seen it firsthand."

- CH (COL) Paul Barnett

Forming Spiritual Leaders for the Armed Forces—Then, Now, and Beyond

With over 250 military chaplains trained, the School of Military Spiritual Formation is one of the most trusted names in military CPE. Now a division of Anam Cara CPE, we carry forward that legacy—offering accredited, mission-aligned formation for those who serve on the spiritual front lines.

Why Military CPE at SMSF?

Legacy of Trust

A proven center that has trained military chaplains across all branches for over a decade.

Military-Experienced Educators

Our faculty includes CPE supervisor-educators with military backgrounds—leaders who understand both the mission and the ministry.

Cohorts That Understand Your World

Train with others who speak your language: chaplains, religious affairs specialists, and assistants

Curriculum Built for the Field

Real-world topics. Real-world application. We go deep into moral injury, trauma, pluralism, ethical leadership, and care under pressure.

Flexible. Accredited. Mission-Aligned.

12-Week Intensive Format

Complete a full unit of Clinical Pastoral Education—without compromising quality or depth.

Fully Online Cohorts

Join real-time group sessions built around military schedules—including deployments and duty rotations.

Use Your Current Assignment

Most students complete their 300 clinical hours through approved work contexts. No relocation required.

Nationally Recognized Accreditation

Offered through Anam Cara CPE, an affiliate of Clinical Pastoral Education International (CPEI), accredited by DEAC.

This Program Is For You If…

  • You serve as a military chaplain, chaplain candidate, religious affairs specialist, or assistant.

  • You’re pursuing board certification or denominational endorsement.

  • You’re seeking formation grounded in the military’s unique spiritual demands.

  • You need a flexible, accredited pathway that fits your service.

Start Your Next Mission

Military chaplaincy is more than a role—it’s a calling to carry hope into the hardest places.

We’re here to help you carry it well.

Accreditation & Affiliation

The School of Military Spiritual Formation is a division of Anam Cara CPE, an affiliate of Clinical Pastoral Education International (CPEI).

CPEI is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA)