The Under Secretary of the Navy has signed SECNAVINST 7010.6B, Religious Offering Fund (ROF), March 22.

The ROF reflects the Department of the Navy's commitment to support the religious freedom of service members by making it possible for them to make offerings at chapel worship services.

"The ROF provides opportunities within command religious programs (CRP) for religious expression through the collection and disbursement of voluntary monetary donations," said Rear Adm. Margaret Kibben, Navy Chief of Chaplains.

Prior to the release of the ROF, the Chief of Chaplains approved training that highlights the major changes to ensure administrators of the funds are prepared to implement new procedures.

"Commanders are responsible for the command religious programs, and are allocated appropriated funds (APF) to ensure the free exercise of religion for all service members and their families," said Kibben.

The most important change is the ability to use the ROF to enhance the CRP with items to enrich worship life for service members and their families such as religious education supplies, funding contract positions for directors of religious education, and purchasing hymnals or musical instruments. Formerly, the ROF was only allowed to be used for philanthropic purposes. The change brings the ROF into closer alignment with other services.

"The ROF augments the CRP programs; however, it doesn't and shouldn't be used to replace the appropriated funds," added Kibben.

The instruction lays out the responsibilities of the religious ministry team. The senior chaplain is the administrator and supervises the assistant administrator, custodian record keeper, sub-account representatives, and audit board that consists of two members appointed by the commander. To ensure compliance, audits will now be conducted quarterly.

Through the ROF, service members can continue to support philanthropy and charity as part of their religious expression at the chapel through donations. The three donation options are voluntary giving, organized group fundraisers, and designated offerings.

SECNAVINST 7010.6B, Religious Offering Fund is located on the Department of Navy Issuances website. For more information on your local chapel program, go to the command website. For more about the Chaplain Corps visit the America's Navy website.

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