CHAPTER 1
THE COMMAND RELIGIOUS
(CRP) AND THE RELIGIOUS
SPECIALIST (RP)
PROGRAM
PROGRAM
The Religious Program Specialist (RP) rating
was established effective 15 January 1979, and is
designed to provide Navy chaplains with profes-
sional support personnel who are skilled in
religious programming and administration.
Approximately two-thirds of the tasks RPs are
trained to perform are in the area of religious pro-
gramming. The remaining tasks are of a clerical
nature. Figure 1-1 shows a brief general descrip-
tion of the duties that the RP will perform. It
should be noted that personnel of the RP rating
are combatants.
It is essential to indicate that personnel selected
for the RP rating are not clergy. They are not
expected to perform functions reserved for
members of the clergy. Members of the rating are
required to support chaplains in meeting the needs
of persons of all faith groups. Religious Program
Specialist functions are set forth in Occupational
Standards (NAVPERS 18068-D).
This module provides information that is
directly related to certain occupational standards
for RP3 and RP2. Module I (Personnel Support)
and Module II (Logistic Support and Financial
RELIGIOUS PROGRAM SPECIALIST DUTIES
Determine religious program support
Assist in preparation of devotional and reli-
requirements.
gious education materials.
Assist in management of religious pro-
Assist in the supervision of the office of the
grams and facilities.
chaplain.
Maintain records of nonappropriated chapel
Coordinate volunteer religious programs.
funds.
Maintain records of appropriated funds
Train personnel in support of religious
and property accounts in support of religious
programs.
programs.
Instruct personnel in methods of religious
Serve as chapel fund administrators and
education.
account custodians for nonappropriated
funds.
Maintain liaison with ecclesiastical and
community agencies.
Maintain ecclesiastical documents.
Maintain shipboard libraries.
Requisition, receive, maintain, and safe-
guard ecclesiastical equipment and sup-
Perform administrative, clerical, and secre-
plies.
tarial duties.
Figure 1-1.—Duties of the Religious Program Specialist.
1-1
