The following categories are available as levels of registration in the form of designations:

If you are not sure of which category to apply for , our office will communicate to you with all the relevant categories once the compulsory assessment is complete.

Chaplaincy Membership Categories

1. Full Member

This category is open to qualified and certified chaplains actively engaged in chaplaincy work within healthcare, correctional services, military, education, emergency services, community, or sports settings. Full Members enjoy voting rights, representation, access to professional development opportunities, and recognition as registered chaplains under SACA.


Application Fee: R120

Annual Membership Fee: R650


2. Associate Member

Associate membership is available to individuals currently undergoing chaplaincy training or those in non-commissioned or volunteer roles. While they may not hold voting rights, they gain access to mentorship, resources, and training support to progress toward full certification.
Application Fee: R120

Annual Membership Fee: R500

3. Student Member

For individuals enrolled in Chaplaincy, Theology, Pastoral Care, EMS or Pastoral Counseling studies. Student Members receive discounted fees, training resources, and participation in selected workshops and events. This membership supports growth and early integration into the chaplaincy community.


Application Fee: R120

Annual Membership Fee: R300


4. Affiliate Member

This category is for professionals working in related fields (e.g., social workers, trauma responders, psychologists, pastoral caregivers) who support the mission of SACA but are not certified chaplains. Affiliate Members may engage in training programs and collaborative events.


Application Fee: R120

Annual Membership Fee: R500

5. Institutional Member

Organizations such as churches, NGOs, emergency service units, training centers and health institutions can register as Institutional Members. This allows them to partner with SACA in training, deployment, and oversight of chaplaincy personnel within their operations.

Application Fee: R120

Annual Membership Fee: R1500

6. Volunteer Member

For those serving in a volunteer capacity and registered with SA Chaplain Association. These members often serve in support roles and are issued with identification. Volunteer Members may participate in certain short courses and receive recognition for service.


Application Fee: R120

Annual Membership Fee: R400

7. Honorary Member

Honorary Membership is awarded by the Board to individuals who have made significant contributions to chaplaincy or the advancement of spiritual care in South Africa. This is a non-voting category and is granted as a gesture of appreciation and recognition.
Application Fee: N/A

Annual Membership Fee: N/A

8. Sport Chaplain

Sport Chaplains serve athletes, coaches, and teams by providing spiritual support, pastoral care, and ethical guidance. They promote character development and emotional well-being in competitive and recreational sports environments. Sport Chaplains may register under Full, Associate, or Affiliate membership depending on their qualifications and training.


Fees apply as per relevant membership category (Full, Associate, or Affiliate).

CHAPLAINCY MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES AND FEES

CategoryDescriptionApplication FeeAnnual Membership Fee
Full MemberQualified and certified chaplains actively engaged in any chaplaincy work, including within healthcare, correctional services, military, education, emergency services, community, sports settings, first responder units, or SAPS (South African Police Service). Full Members enjoy voting rights, representation, access to professional development opportunities, and recognition as registered chaplains under SACA.R120R650
Associate MemberIndividuals in chaplaincy training or non-commissioned/volunteer roles with access to mentorship and training.R120R500
Student MemberEnrolled in Chaplaincy, Theology, EMS, or Counseling studies; includes discounted fees and workshop access.R120R300
Affiliate MemberProfessionals in related fields (e.g., social work, counsellors, psychology, trauma response) who support SACA’s mission.R120R500
Institutional MemberChurches, NGOs, health institutions, and emergency units partnering with SACA in chaplaincy oversight and deployment.R120R1500
Volunteer MemberRegistered volunteers in support roles; includes ID and branded golf shirt.R120R400
Honorary MemberAwarded by the Board for significant contributions to chaplaincy.N/AN/A
Sport ChaplainServes athletes and teams; registers under Full, Associate, or Affiliate category based on qualifications.R120As per category