Code of Ethics - Public Safety Chaplain Corp

The Public Safety Chaplain Corp (PSC) establishes the following ethical principles to guide the conduct of its members in the practice of chaplaincy and in service to the community.

Members of PSC commit to uphold these principles in all activities related to the organization.

Members shall act with honesty, transparency, and responsibility in all ministry and organizational activities.

PSC chaplains must represent the organization with dignity, professionalism, and respect.

Members shall treat all individuals with respect, compassion, and dignity regardless of:

• religion
• culture
• ethnicity
• social status
• personal beliefs

PSC chaplaincy serves individuals in need without discrimination.

Members shall respect and protect the confidentiality of information shared in pastoral care, counseling, or spiritual support settings.

Confidential information may only be disclosed when required by law or when there is an immediate risk to life or safety.

Members must clearly understand the limits of the chaplain role.

PSC chaplains shall not:

• act as law enforcement officers
• perform police duties
• provide professional services requiring licensure unless properly licensed
• represent governmental authority

Members must maintain professional and responsible conduct in all public and institutional activities.

PSC chaplains must avoid any behavior that could damage the reputation of the organization or undermine public trust.

• obtain personal advantage
• exert improper influence
• imply authority they do not possess

The title must only be used within appropriate pastoral or community service contexts.

PSC members must comply with all applicable laws and regulations.

The organization shall not be used for illegal, fraudulent, or inappropriate activities.

PSC chaplains must exercise their ministry with empathy, sensitivity, and emotional responsibility, especially when serving individuals in crisis.

Pastoral care must prioritize the well-being of those receiving support.

Members must respect and cooperate with institutions and authorities with whom they serve, including:

• community organizations
• public institutions
• emergency response teams
• churches and faith-based organizations

Members are expected to maintain ethical conduct both within and outside official PSC activities.

The Public Safety Chaplain Corp reserves the right to investigate, suspend, or revoke membership of any member who violates the principles of this Code of Ethics.

By becoming a member of the Public Safety Chaplain Corp, each chaplain affirms that they have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Ethics.

The purpose of this code is to preserve the integrity of the organization and to promote responsible, compassionate, and trustworthy chaplaincy service to the community.