In the past decade there has been a significant increase in the demand for professionally trained Muslim chaplains. In university chaplaincy alone, the number of Muslim chaplains has more than quadrupled.

“AMC, as the first and only professional organization, fills an urgently needed gap for Muslim Chaplains of all institutional backgrounds. AMC provides the professional space for these Chaplains to share the common experience and support them in their personal, spiritual and ministerial growth.” Abdullah T. Antepli, Chief Representative of Muslim Affairs, Duke University

What's a Chaplain?

A chaplain's primary focus will vary depending on the needs of those they are serving. 

For instance, on college campuses, a Muslim chaplain primarily supports Muslim students' transition to campus life, facilitates religious programming, offers teaching and instruction, builds alliances and partnerships with other campus-based communities on common causes, and is in perpetual dialogue with administration to assure students are supported fully.

Muslim chaplains serve as valued advisors on Islamic practices and ethics to their colleagues and institutions. They may provide guidance pertaining to concerns such as end-of-life issues in hospitals, grief, marriage and family counseling, and religious (as well as cultural) accommodations within the guidelines of Islam. 

A member of AMC, Chaplain Asma Hanif, 2014 Dunkin’ Donuts Community Hero Award Recipient – Her Organization, Muslimat Al-Nisaa is a shelter for Muslim Women and Children.

Clearly, professional chaplains do not displace local religious leaders, but rather they complement their efforts so that communities can thrive, insha’Allah. A Muslim chaplain is not necessarily an “Imam,” although an Imam with proper training may work as a professional chaplain. 

Beyond colleges, of course, chaplains also support the well-being of Muslims in settings as diverse as hospitals, prisons, the military, and community organizations, including masajids. While providing spiritual care for Muslims, chaplains also serve as critical bridges between Muslims and non-Muslims.

Why Chaplains Matter?

Chaplains are increasingly becoming the public face of Islam in academic and professional settings throughout North America. 

That is, with the growth of Muslims here, an increasing number of public and private institutions recognize that they must provide enhanced religious accommodations. Chaplains fill this role seamlessly as trusted agents, advocates, trainers and liaisons within their institutions.

“There is a growing need in Muslim communities to identify youth who are [or may be] struggling with issues around peer pressure, bullying, the pressures of society, families and [their] self identity as a youth…” Chaplain Matiniah Yahya, Community Chaplain, New Haven, CT

“If we are serious about making Islam a vibrant contributing part of the American mosaic, we must build and support professional organizations like the Association of Muslim Chaplains.” Professor Jimmy Jones, Member and Advisor, AMC.

Where is AMC today?

The Association of Muslim Chaplains (AMC) has been working for the past several years to professionalize the development of Islamic chaplaincy. Led by the volunteer Executive Committee, AMC’s efforts have focused on providing seminars, webinars, workshops and an annual conference, which offers networking opportunities and continuing education credits for Muslim chaplains.

"Chaplaincy is a recognized, respected and gender-neutral profession." Dr. Ingrid Mattson, supporter of AMC and past keynote speaker at AMC’s Annual Conference.

Alhamdulillah, the next stage of organizational growth is now upon us. We have reached the capacity limits of an all-volunteer team. To thrive, the organization requires a dedicated staff if it is to truly support and meet the growing needs of Muslim chaplains and those they serve. 

You have a critical role in moving this work forward, and with it, the Muslim American community. Here's How: