AFPD52-1 governs Air Force Chaplain Corps policy, mission, religious support, and responsibilities and authorities.
View AFPD52-1 on armypubs.army.mil
It describes commanders’ responsibility to provide for the free exercise of religion and chaplains’ advisory, liaison, and religious support roles. It establishes spiritual care, leadership advice, Religious Support Teams, and Senior Religious Support Teams as core elements of the Chaplain Corps mission.
Applies to: This publication is applicable for Regular Air Force, Air Force Reserve, Air National Guard, and civilian personnel in fulfilling the mission of the Chaplain Corps.
Chaplains shall serve a religiously diverse population, providing comprehensive religious support to all authorized individuals within their area of responsibilities. (paragraph 2)
The Air Force Chaplain Corps provides spiritual care and ensures all Airmen and their families have opportunities to exercise their constitutional right to the free exercise of religion. (paragraph 3)
Chaplains are the commanders’ resource to accomplish this task and serve “as the principal advisors to commanders regarding the impact of religion on military operations.” (paragraph 2)
Chaplains may also be tasked with certain liaison functions. (paragraph 2)
The Religious Support Team is comprised of one Air Force chaplain and one Religious Affairs Airmen at every organizational level. (paragraph 4)